Boston Celtics Jayson Tatum Suffers Torn Achilles in Playoff Loss to Knicks

Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum suffered a ruptured right Achilles tendon during their Game 4 loss to the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals, leading to season-ending surgery. Tatum, who was having a historic playoff performance, will likely miss most if not all of the 2025-26 season, with recovery timelines for such injuries averaging around 10 months. This injury severely diminishes the Celtics' chances to repeat as NBA champions this season, especially as they face a 3-1 series deficit, while opening up the title race to other contenders like the Knicks, Pacers, Thunder, Nuggets, and Timberwolves. Beyond the immediate impact, Tatum's long-term absence poses significant financial and roster challenges for Boston, as the team is already deep in luxury tax commitments. His injury continues a troubling trend of multiple All-Stars suffering injuries in the playoffs during recent years, a pattern linked to the NBA's increasingly demanding pace and style of play. Despite the severity of the injury, the Celtics and Tatum are optimistic about a full recovery, though no exact return timetable has been provided.