ESPN Star Reacts To Jayson Tatum’s Injury in Celtics-Knicks Game 4

Former New Orleans Pelicans center Kendrick Perkins reacts to Jayson Tatum's injury in Boston Celtics-New York Knicks Game 4

May 12, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) reacts on the court after an injury in the second half during game four of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Tatum would leave the game with an injury after this play. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images / Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Game 4 between the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics seemed as if it was going to decide what direction this series was going. With the Knicks holding the 2-1 series lead, a win for New York would position them well to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals, while a Boston win would give them all the momentum with two of the final three games at home.

However, the Knicks were able to defend home court, as a strong performance from their starters helped lead them to a 121-113 win. While a 3-1 deficit makes advancing improbable for the Celtics, their chances are even slimmer now with Jayson Tatum's injury situation.

My concern is a torn right Achilles tendon for Jayson Tatum.

Pushed off, leg gave out, immediately grabbed, writhing in pain.

Couldn’t bear any weight on it and needed to be wheelchaired off.

Other injuries (ankle sprain, fracture) are possible but unlikely.

SMH pic.twitter.com/ipBkSNYFsg

— Jesse Morse, M.D. (@DrJesseMorse) May 13, 2025

With just over three minutes left in the fourth quarter, Tatum went to catch a loose ball from Jaylen Brown, which led him to go down in pain on the court. While no announcement will be made till after Tuesday morning's MRI, many are speculating a torn Achilles for the Celtics star. Seeing this, former New Orleans Pelicans center and ex-Celtics champion Kendrick Perkins chimed in.

"🙏🏾 for Tatum," Perkins said via his X account. What made it worse for the Celtics was that Tatum was rising to the occasion, as he left the game with 42 points, eight rebounds, four steals, and two blocks in a stellar performance.

Jayson Tatum was emotional while leaving the game in a wheelchair from a non-contact injury. pic.twitter.com/ZtUGRedUzg

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) May 13, 2025

As mentioned, an official ruling will be made on Tuesday morning, but Tatum's reaction on the court isn't an encouraging sign. If it is an Achilles tear, his status for the start of next season could be affected.

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