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

Michael

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Post on May 15, 2025

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Celtics Star Jayson Tatum Injured, Knicks Dominate Game 4 for Commanding 3-1 Series Lead

New York, NY – The New York Knicks have seized control of their first-round playoff series against the Boston Celtics, securing a dominant 101-89 victory in Game 4. The win gives the Knicks a commanding 3-1 series lead, putting them on the verge of advancing to the next round. However, the game was overshadowed by a concerning injury to Celtics star Jayson Tatum.

The atmosphere at Madison Square Garden was electric, fueled by the Knicks' impressive performance and the palpable tension surrounding Tatum's status. He left the game in the third quarter after suffering an apparent ankle injury, leaving the Celtics without their leading scorer and putting a significant damper on their playoff hopes. The severity of the injury remains unknown, with official updates expected in the coming days. The team released a statement only confirming he would undergo further evaluation.

<h3>Knicks' Dominance on Full Display</h3>

The Knicks' victory wasn't solely a result of Tatum's absence. They controlled the game from start to finish, showcasing a level of defensive intensity and offensive efficiency that has been largely absent in previous playoff encounters. Jalen Brunson led the charge with a stellar 29-point performance, expertly navigating the Celtics' defense and creating opportunities for his teammates. RJ Barrett also contributed significantly, adding 23 points and solidifying his role as a key contributor in the Knicks’ resurgence.

• Strong Defensive Effort: The Knicks’ defense suffocated the Celtics, limiting their scoring opportunities and forcing turnovers. Their ability to disrupt the Celtics' rhythm proved crucial to their success. This improved defensive performance was a significant factor in their victory, highlighting the team's growth and tactical adjustments.
• Balanced Scoring: Unlike previous games, the Knicks showcased a balanced scoring attack, preventing the Celtics from focusing their defensive efforts on a single player. This collective offensive approach proved highly effective.
• Controlling the Rebounds: The Knicks dominated the boards, securing crucial rebounds that prevented second-chance points for the Celtics and initiated their own fast breaks. Their dominance on the glass was another key factor in their success.

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

Tatum's injury is undoubtedly the biggest talking point coming out of Game 4. His absence was immediately felt by the Celtics, disrupting their offensive flow and leaving a significant void in their leadership on the court. The team now faces a daunting task: winning three consecutive games against a surging Knicks team, all while dealing with the potential absence of their star player. The next few days will be crucial for the Celtics, both in terms of Tatum's recovery and their overall playoff strategy. The severity of the injury could impact not only this series but also the Celtics' long-term postseason prospects.

<h3>What's Next?</h3>

Game 5 is scheduled for [Date and Time], and the anticipation is palpable. Can the Celtics overcome this significant setback and rally without their star player? Or will the Knicks capitalize on their momentum and secure a decisive victory, advancing to the next round? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for further updates on Jayson Tatum's injury and the unfolding of this exciting playoff series. This series has become a must-watch for basketball fans everywhere.

Keywords: Celtics, Knicks, NBA Playoffs, Jayson Tatum, Jalen Brunson, RJ Barrett, Game 4, Injury, Playoffs 2024, NBA, Madison Square Garden, Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, 3-1 series lead, basketball.