Boston Celtics All-Star forward Jayson Tatum a Game Time Decision for Game 3 @ Orlando Magic. With perhaps the most high profile injury right now, Zion Williamson is dealing with a significant bone bruise in his right wrist. Tatum had first injured the shoulder in the series’ Game 1, when he landed on the shoulder after taking a hard foul. The Celtics, even without him, made it a 2-0 series lead in Game 2. This will be the first playoff game he’s missed in his career.
Tatum proved he belonged during the regular season, averaging 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game. He led the eventual NBA champion Celtics, who went on to win 61 games, in all three categories. His phenomenal play earned him six All-Star selections. This success goes a long way in placing him in All-NBA position as well, looking to make it the fifth time this year. Tatum was drafted by the Celtics No. 3 overall in 2017. He did so while playing for Team USA, winning two Olympic gold medals.
In a statement on the matter, Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla spoke to Tatum’s spirit while recovering.
“He’s dealing with a severe bone bruise,” – Joe Mazzulla.
Mazzulla expressed confidence in Tatum’s process and determination, noting that the forward is doing everything possible to return to the court.
“I trust his process, I trust his mindset, I trust the people around him that help put him in position,” – Joe Mazzulla.
The coach noted that Tatum’s status is still day-to-day, with the player continuing to be on the mend.
“At the end of the day I know he’ll do whatever it takes to put himself in position to play and put our team in position to win,” – Joe Mazzulla.
Tatum had played in all 114 postseason games since joining the Celtics, adding even more significance to the star’s absence. Even though the Celtics were able to win without their star in Game 2, they come into Game 3 unsure whether he will be able to play.
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