The Boston Celtics entered Game 4 of their NBA playoff series against the New York Knicks determined to even the score. The stakes were high, and fans were hopeful as the Celtics looked strong early in the game. However, a late-game injury to their superstar Jayson Tatum cast a shadow over Boston’s playoff aspirations.

Celtics Start Strong, But Knicks Rally

In the opening quarters at Madison Square Garden, the Celtics displayed impressive shooting and teamwork. Jayson Tatum and Derrick White found their rhythm, combining for significant points. Boston established an early 14-point lead, showcasing their offensive firepower. However, the Knicks refused to back down.

Jalen Brunson spearheaded New York’s comeback, pouring in 39 points with much of his production coming in the critical third quarter. The detailed game recap on ESPN highlights the key moments when the Knicks overturned Boston’s advantage and dominated late in the game. By the fourth quarter, New York surged ahead, turning the contest into a back-and-forth battle.

Tatum’s Injury Shifts the Series

Boston fans watched in disbelief as Jayson Tatum, already having a brilliant performance with 42 points, suffered a non-contact leg injury chasing a loose ball in the fourth quarter. He was helped off the court and later wheeled into the locker room, creating uncertainty about his availability for the rest of the series. The NBC Sports Boston recap provides in-depth analysis and player reactions, from Jaylen Brown’s stunned response to Al Horford’s concern for their teammate. Head coach Joe Mazzulla confirmed that Tatum would undergo an MRI to determine the extent of his injury.

The injury not only impacted the game’s outcome but also left the Celtics in a challenging position, trailing 3-1 in the series as play shifts back to Boston for a critical Game 5.

Knicks Capitalize on Celtics’ Misfortune

While the Celtics fought hard, the Knicks played their best basketball of the postseason. Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Karl-Anthony Towns contributed vital plays on both ends of the court, helping New York seal the win. As analyzed in The Athletic’s live blog, the Knicks’ defense and offensive rebounds stifled Boston’s attack as the game wore on.

Brunson’s dominant second half and Bridges’ mid-range shooting proved too much for the Celtics to overcome, especially after Tatum’s exit. The Knicks are now just one win away from reaching their first Eastern Conference Finals in 25 years.

Can the Celtics Bounce Back?

The Celtics have thrived under pressure throughout the season. Their performance in away games has often been a strength, with key wins on the road building confidence within the squad. Still, facing elimination and playing possibly without Jayson Tatum is a daunting test.

Game 5 is set for Wednesday night at TD Garden. For Boston to extend the series, players like Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and Al Horford must elevate their game. The Celtics’ ability to regroup, overcome adversity, and reignite their championship hopes is now under the spotlight.

Conclusion

The Celtics’ defeat in Game 4 marked a turning point in this hard-fought playoff series. Tatum’s untimely injury and the Knicks’ relentless comeback put Boston’s season at risk. Yet, if the Celtics have shown us anything this year, it’s resilience and heart. With their backs against the wall, all eyes are on how Boston responds in Game 5. Stay tuned for updates as the Celtics aim to keep their championship dream alive.