Tatum's injury has attracted attention, but the Celtics are still optimistic

Jayson Tatum suffered a lasting lasting quarter in the Boston Celtics’ 113-95 victory over the Sacramento Kings, but it seemed less than the initial concern. The six-time All-Star team led the team with 25 points when they were fouled by Kings center Domantas Sabonis when they tried to make a controversial three-pointer. After Tatum landed on his feet, Sabonis was asked to blatantly 1, and the Celtics' advance immediately fell to the floor in pain.

Tatum was able to shoot one of two free throws before heading to the locker room. After the game, he described his ankle as “pain” and made sure the team would be “careful” in managing their own recovery. Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla expressed optimism, saying: “He seems to be fine. He is taking care of it now. Luckily, he was able to free throws.” Tatum grabbed seven rebounds and got eight assists before exiting, and spent some time with his teammates after the game and slightly lim when leaving the arena.

Sabonis is responsible for the drama that caused Tatum's injury and regrets the incident. “I feel scary,” he said. “You never want this to happen, I apologize.” Sabonis himself had a tough month and recently returned from an ankle injury that cost him three games.

Despite losing Tatum, the Celtics managed to finish the game, with Kristaps Porzingis stepping up to lead the team in Tatum’s absence. “He kept cooking until he was injured,” Porzingis said. “He is carrying us, but we can get the job done.”

With 10 games left in the regular season, the Celtics trailed only 4 1/2 games behind the Eastern Conference head, and the team was cautious about Tatum's recovery. Although his injury is not serious, the Celtics may take him off in the upcoming game to ensure he is full of strength in the playoffs.

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