Sports
Jayson Tatum Questionable for Celtics’ Game Against Hawks Due to Ankle Sprain
The Boston Celtics are facing uncertainty about the availability of their star forward, Jayson Tatum, for their upcoming game against the Atlanta Hawks. Tatum is listed as questionable due to a left ankle sprain he suffered during the third quarter of Sunday’s 113-107 win over the Milwaukee Bucks.
The injury occurred when Tatum took a corner three-pointer and landed on the foot of Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo, causing him to twist his ankle. Despite the pain, Tatum remained in the game and finished with 31 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists. However, he expressed frustration on social media over the lack of a foul call on the play.
Tatum’s status is crucial for the Celtics, who are currently 9-2 in their first 11 games. He is averaging 30.5 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game this season, shooting 46.5% from the field and 36.7% from three-point range.
In addition to Tatum, the Celtics are also dealing with other injuries. Veteran big man Al Horford is questionable with a toe injury, and reserve guard Jaden Springer is questionable with left knee tendinopathy. If Horford is unable to play, Neemias Queta or Luke Kornet may start as the center.
The Atlanta Hawks, on the other hand, will be without their All-Star point guard Trae Young, who has been ruled out due to right Achilles tendinitis. Young is averaging 23.9 points and 11.5 assists per game this season.
Tatum’s performance is not only significant for the team’s immediate success but also for his place in Celtics history. In the ongoing Emirates NBA Cup matchup against the Hawks, Tatum has moved into 12th place among Boston’s all-time leading scorers, surpassing Hall of Famer Tommy Heinsohn‘s 12,194 points.