The Boston Celtics on the verge of experimentation Star performer Jayson Tatum listed as doubtful for Wednesday night’s home game against the Phoenix Suns. Star Tatum sprained his left ankle early in the third quarter of the Celtics’ 113-95 win over the Sacramento Kings. Tatum’s injury occurred on a contested 3-pointer. Domantas Sabonis committed the foul on him during the play and was awarded a flagrant 1 foul call. So when Tatum’s left foot impacts Sabonis’ foot, he falls directly to the ground almost immediately. This fall caused concern as to whether he’d be able to suit up for future games.
Immediately following the game, Boston coach Joe Mazzulla was hopeful that Tatum’s absence wouldn’t be long-term. Though Tatum was limping gingerly through the locker room, he was hopeful. He calmed any freakouts from fans and teammates alike when he told ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne that his ankle is “just sore.” The good news here is that the team does plan to be careful with the way his recovery unfolds.
"Going to be cautious," remarked Tatum, highlighting the team's approach to handling his injury.
The Boston Celtics are doing quite well, with a 53-19 record. They are currently 4.5 games back of the first place Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference. They’re a cozy eight games ahead of third-place New York Knicks. As they prepare for their matchup against the Suns, the Celtics' strategy will likely adapt to account for Tatum's potential absence.
The situation with Sabonis occurred almost immediately after the team changed Tatum’s injury designation to reflect his newfound status as questionable. This unusual timing made things even more difficult. The Celtics will need to navigate these challenges as they head into Wednesday night's game, weighing Tatum's health against their strategic goals.
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