Jayson Tatum, the supernova young star of the Boston Celtics, will miss the first playoff game of his young career. He suffered the injury in a recent game against the Chicago Bulls. In the third quarter, Tatum went up in midair against Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Wendell Carter Jr. He was attempting to throw down one of his patented, powerful two-handed dunks when the injury occurred.
Tatum finished the game with 17 points on 8-of-22 shooting and recorded a game-high 14 rebounds before leaving the court. Following the game, he was seen icing his wrist and walking gingerly, which cast significant doubt on his playoff availability. An MRI exam showed that Tatum has a bone bruise. Because of this, the Celtics listed him out almost a full hour before tipoff.
Tatum appeared in all but ten of the 82 regular-season games this season. He finished the regular season leading the Celtics in points, assists and rebounds per game. He was instrumental to the team’s performance. When he was in the lineup, they posted an astounding 53-19 record. The Celtics managed an 8-2 record without him, but his absence will still be felt as they enter the postseason.
Tatum has long had an impressive playoff reputation. In his eight seasons with Boston, he’s appeared in every one of the 114 playoff games possible. Together with his leadership, that performance has been indispensable for the team. Cause for concern This is a considerable blow as they prepare for their playoff push.
Entering into the playoffs, Tatum had been limited to portions of Boston’s practice on Tuesday. Although he was acutely aware of his first wrist bleeding with intense pain, he was very hopeful. He laid off his customary pregame shooting work with fellow Celtics star Jaylen Brown. This is a sign that he may have some else concerns regarding his readiness.
Meanwhile, the Boston Celtics are getting ready for their first-round playoff series. Like a sports team forced to recalibrate without their superstar on the court. Tatum’s absence marks a significant moment in his career and for the Celtics’ hopes of advancing through the playoffs.
“I know he’s doing everything he can to put himself in position to play,” – Joe Mazzulla
As the Celtics gear up for their playoff matchup, they will need to adjust their strategy without their star player. Tatum’s absence marks a significant moment in his career and for the Celtics’ hopes of advancing through the playoffs.
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