Knicks Triumph Over Celtics In Game 4: Tatum Injury A Major Blow For Boston

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Post on May 13, 2025

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Knicks Triumph Over Celtics in Game 4: Tatum Injury Casts Long Shadow Over Boston's Playoff Hopes

The New York Knicks delivered a resounding blow to the Boston Celtics in Game 4 of their Eastern Conference first-round playoff series, securing a 118-111 victory and taking a commanding 3-1 series lead. However, the game's outcome was overshadowed by a concerning injury to Celtics star Jayson Tatum, leaving Boston's playoff hopes hanging precariously.

The atmosphere at Madison Square Garden was electric, fueled by the Knicks' dominant performance and the palpable tension surrounding Tatum's injury. The forward, who had been battling through an ankle injury, appeared to reaggravate it in the third quarter, visibly limping and visibly impacting his performance for the remainder of the game. He finished with 22 points, but his movement was noticeably restricted, leaving Celtics fans and analysts alike deeply worried about his availability for the remaining games.

Tatum's Injury: A Potential Series-Altering Event

Tatum's injury is undoubtedly the biggest talking point emerging from Game 4. His status for Game 5 is currently uncertain, with initial reports suggesting a significant ankle sprain. The Celtics, already facing a challenging series against a revitalized Knicks team, would be severely hampered without their leading scorer and all-around star player. The team's offensive strategy heavily relies on Tatum's scoring ability and playmaking, and his absence would create a massive void difficult to fill. The severity of the injury and the resulting timeline for recovery will be key factors determining the fate of the series.

Knicks Dominate Despite Celtics' Fightback

Despite the injury drama, the Knicks delivered a strong performance, showcasing impressive offensive firepower and defensive resilience. Jalen Brunson led the scoring charge for the Knicks with 38 points, demonstrating his championship mettle under immense pressure. RJ Barrett also contributed significantly, solidifying the Knicks' offensive strength. The Knicks effectively neutralized the Celtics' key players, limiting their scoring opportunities and forcing turnovers. The Celtics, despite valiant efforts from Jaylen Brown and Malcolm Brogdon, couldn't overcome the Knicks' overall dominance and the significant impact of Tatum's injury.

Game 4 Highlights:

• Brunson's Masterclass: Jalen Brunson's 38-point performance was a game-changer, showcasing his clutch shooting and leadership.
• Defensive Prowess: The Knicks' defensive intensity significantly limited the Celtics' offensive output.
• Tatum's Injury: The concerning injury to Jayson Tatum casts a long shadow over the series and the Celtics' playoff hopes.
• MSG Atmosphere: The electric atmosphere at Madison Square Garden fueled the Knicks' performance.

Looking Ahead: A Pivotal Game 5

Game 5 will now be a crucial turning point in the series. If Tatum is unable to play or is significantly limited, the Celtics face a near-impossible task of mounting a comeback. The Knicks, boosted by their commanding lead and the momentum of Game 4, will be aiming to close out the series in Boston. The next game promises high stakes and intense competition, making it a must-watch for all NBA fans. The absence of Tatum dramatically alters the series dynamics, opening up the possibility of an unexpected upset. The next few days will bring crucial updates on Tatum's injury, shaping the narratives and expectations for the remainder of this thrilling playoff matchup. The question now is: can the Celtics overcome this adversity, or will the Knicks complete their stunning upset?