Celtics Star Injured As Knicks Dominate Game 4, Taking 3-1 Series Advantage

Michael

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Post on May 15, 2025

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Celtics Star Jayson Tatum Injured as Knicks Dominate Game 4, Seizing 3-1 Series Lead

The New York Knicks have taken a commanding 3-1 series lead over the Boston Celtics after a dominant Game 4 performance, punctuated by a concerning injury to Celtics star Jayson Tatum. The 102-93 victory at Madison Square Garden leaves the Celtics facing elimination in Game 5, a situation few predicted after their strong regular season.

The game itself was a masterclass in defensive intensity from the Knicks, effectively stifling Boston's usually potent offense. Tatum, who had been carrying the Celtics' scoring load throughout the playoffs, struggled with the Knicks' physical defense, finishing with a relatively modest 18 points on inefficient shooting. However, the bigger story emerged late in the third quarter.

<h3>Tatum's Injury Casts a Long Shadow</h3>

With just under five minutes remaining in the third, Tatum appeared to suffer a left ankle injury after a contested shot. He immediately grabbed his ankle and crumpled to the court, visibly in pain. After receiving attention from the Celtics' medical staff, he limped off the court and did not return. The severity of the injury remains unclear, with official reports pending. However, his absence left a gaping hole in the Celtics’ offense, and significantly impacted their ability to mount a comeback.

The injury adds a significant layer of drama to an already tense series. The Celtics, known for their resilience, now face the daunting task of winning three consecutive games against a confident Knicks team playing at home. Without their star player at full strength, that challenge becomes exponentially harder.

<h3>Knicks' Stifling Defense the Key to Victory</h3>

Beyond Tatum's injury, the Knicks' suffocating defense was the key factor in their victory. They effectively neutralized the Celtics' other scoring threats, limiting Jaylen Brown's effectiveness and forcing turnovers. The Knicks' ability to switch seamlessly on defense, coupled with their physicality, proved too much for the Celtics to overcome.

Key factors contributing to the Knicks' victory include:

• Exceptional Defensive Performance: The Knicks' team defense was relentless, forcing turnovers and contesting shots effectively.
• Strong Rebounding: They controlled the boards, limiting Boston's second-chance scoring opportunities.
• Balanced Scoring: The Knicks received contributions from multiple players, preventing the Celtics from focusing their defensive efforts on a single scorer. Jalen Brunson's leadership was pivotal.

<h3>What's Next for the Celtics?</h3>

The Celtics now face a monumental uphill battle. While their history is replete with playoff comebacks, the injury to Tatum significantly diminishes their chances. The team will need to rely heavily on Brown and their role players to step up in a major way. The next few days will be crucial, as the team assesses Tatum's injury and prepares for a do-or-die Game 5.

The series has shifted dramatically. Once considered favorites, the Celtics are now facing elimination, and the future of their playoff run hangs precariously in the balance. The next game promises to be a high-stakes showdown, with the potential for a stunning comeback or a definitive Knicks victory.

Stay tuned for updates on Tatum's injury and further analysis of this pivotal Game 4. What are your predictions for the rest of the series? Let us know in the comments below!