Celtics’ Jayson Tatum Injured in Game Against Kings

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Boston Celtics star forward Jayson Tatum suffered a left ankle sprain during the third quarter of Monday night’s game against the Sacramento Kings, raising concerns ahead of the playoffs.

Tatum, a six-time All-Star, was leading the Celtics with 25 points when he attempted a 3-pointer and landed awkwardly on Kings center Domantas Sabonis‘ foot, which resulted in a flagrant 1 foul being called on Sabonis. The injury occurred with 3:35 remaining in the third quarter, while the Celtics held a 79-68 advantage.

“He seems to be doing OK,” Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla said. “I didn’t see the play, but they made the right call. Fortunate that he was able to shoot the free throws. He’s taking care of it right now.” Tatum managed to make one of two free throws before heading to the locker room and did not return to the game.

Despite the injury, Tatum’s performance was commendable. He wrapped up the game with 25 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds in 26 minutes of play. Mazzulla emphasized the importance of monitoring Tatum’s condition carefully, revealing that the team would be cautious with their star player.

“I literally just asked him how he was doing, and he said, ‘OK,’” Mazzulla added. “He’ll do anything and everything to make sure he gets better.”

After the incident, Sabonis expressed remorse, saying he felt “horrible” about the foul that led to Tatum’s injury.

Tatum’s health status is particularly crucial as the Celtics push towards the playoffs, with only ten regular-season games remaining. Currently, the Celtics (53-19) are in a strong position for the Eastern Conference playoffs, likely facing either the Atlanta Hawks or Orlando Magic in the first round.

This season, Tatum has been a dominant force, averaging 27.1 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game, ranking him among the top players in the league. He has shown remarkable durability, appearing in 66 games so far. However, should the Celtics choose to proceed with caution, he may rest during the team’s upcoming road stretch that includes games against the Phoenix Suns and San Antonio Spurs.

Rookie Baylor Scheierman made a significant impact by filling the gap during Tatum’s absence, recording nine points and seven rebounds against the Kings. Mazzulla praised Scheierman’s energy and potential contributions as the team adjusts its strategy with injuries in play. “The offensive rebounds, deflections, steals, getting more comfortable with the schemes on both ends of the floor. He’s playing really well,” Mazzulla concluded.

The Celtics, riding a six-game winning streak, emerged victorious against the Kings with a final score of 113-95, driven by solid performances from players like Payton Pritchard, who added 22 points in support of Tatum’s efforts in the game.