The Celtics’ star finally speaks out as Boston faces elimination without him.
Just days after one of the most devastating injuries of his career, Jayson Tatum has broken his silence.
Ahead of Game 5 between the Boston Celtics and the New York Knicks, Tatum took to social media to send a heartfelt message following his season-ending Achilles injury.
On Instagram and X, Tatum posted a photo giving a thumbs-up gesture from the hospital, writing:
“Thankful for all the love and support.”
It’s the first public update from the Celtics’ superstar since collapsing in Game 4 at Madison Square Garden, clutching his right foot in agony.
Tatum’s Long Road Ahead
Tatum underwent successful surgery to repair a ruptured right Achilles tendon, the Celtics officially confirmed.
There is no exact timetable for his return, but he is expected to make a full recovery — though the rehab could take 9 to 12 months or longer.
It’s a brutal blow for the Celtics, who now trail 3-1 in the second-round series against the Knicks and are staring down a possible second-round playoff exit.
At just 27 years old, Tatum had led the Celtics in points, rebounds, and assists for the second consecutive postseason — anchoring both sides of the ball during Boston’s title defense.
From Heroic Effort to Heartbreaking Exit
Before the injury, Tatum delivered one of the greatest playoff performances of his career:
- 42 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals, 2 blocks
- Shot 16-of-28 from the field and 7-of-16 from three
- Played elite defense against both Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson
It wasn’t just a great stat line — it was a legacy game in the making.
But it all unraveled in a single horrifying moment, when Tatum crumpled to the floor without contact, needing to be wheelchaired off the court in visible tears.
The Pressure on Boston’s Remaining Stars
With Tatum officially sidelined, Jaylen Brown, Kristaps Porziņģis, Derrick White, and Jrue Holiday must now carry the load.
Boston went 8–2 without Tatum during the regular season, but playoff intensity is a different battle.
So far in this series, the supporting cast has struggled to fill the void, and without a dramatic turnaround, the Celtics’ hopes of repeating as champions will soon end.
If Boston can’t rally in Game 5 at TD Garden, the Eastern Conference could have a new power rising.
