The Boston Celtics are trying to avoid blowing a 3-1 series lead on Saturday against one of their biggest Eastern Conference rivals, the Philadelphia 76ers.
One of the major storylines entering the decisive matchup is the status of Jayson Tatum, who did not play in the fourth quarter of Game 6 after experiencing tightness in his left leg. Without Tatum, Philadelphia’s chances of completing the comeback increase significantly.
Tatum has picked up right where he left off after returning from his near year-long absence due to a torn right Achilles.
Through the first six games of the series, the 28-year-old forward has averaged 23.3 points, 10.7 rebounds and 6.8 assists while shooting 47.5% from the field and 36.5% from beyond the arc. Boston has leaned heavily on him throughout the series.
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It is important to note that the left leg tightness he felt in Game 6 is unrelated to the right Achilles injury he has been managing since his return.
After Thursday’s loss, both Tatum and head coach Joe Mazzulla expressed confidence that he would be available for Game 7, calling the issue minor and not something that would keep him out of a win or go home matchup.
But just hours before tipoff, the team announced an update that will disappoint Celtics fans. Boston added Tatum to the injury report with left knee stiffness, officially listing him as questionable for Game 7. With the Celtics season on the line, the timing could not be worse.
It is clear Tatum is not 100%. The Celtics do not want their franchise superstar risking another long-term setback, especially after the rehab he endured to return from his right Achilles tear.
Tatum is one of the best players of his generation, a six-time All Star, five-time All NBA selection and an NBA champion, and Boston’s hopes of advancing rest heavily on his availability.
Still, the stakes could not be higher. Game 7 will determine whether Boston moves on or suffers one of the most disappointing collapses in recent franchise history. More updates on Tatum’s status are expected as tip-off approaches, but his availability now hangs in the balance at the worst possible moment.
