Jayson Tatum, star of the Boston Celtics, suffered a torn Achilles tendon in his right leg during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks and underwent surgery on Tuesday. The serious injury not only puts Boston’s playoff hopes in jeopardy — the series stands 3-1 in favor of New York — but also raises doubts about next season and the future of the Celtics’ project, especially with the team in the middle of an ownership transition.

No Set Timeline for Return

“Jayson Tatum underwent successful surgery today to repair a torn right Achilles tendon,” the team announced in a statement posted on social media platform X. “There is currently no timetable for his return, but a full recovery is expected,” added the most decorated franchise in NBA history.

Tatum was putting on a stellar performance at Madison Square Garden, racking up 42 points (16-of-28 shooting, including 7-of-16 from three), along with 8 rebounds, 4 assists, and 4 steals, before going down with just over three minutes left. He left the court with assistance, unable to put weight on the leg, and was later seen in a wheelchair in the arena’s hallways.

A Crushing Blow for Team and Fans

“It’s tough to see a guy like Tatum being carried off the court,” lamented Joe Mazzulla, head coach of the Celtics, after the game. A champion with Boston last season, the 27-year-old Tatum is a six-time All-Star and has made the All-NBA First Team in each of the last three seasons. This regular season, he averaged 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 6 assists per game. His absence is a massive blow to a team already under pressure against an in-form Knicks squad.

The Celtics had built a 14-point lead in the third quarter in New York, but now face the daunting task of trying to pull off a comeback without their franchise player. Overcoming a 3-1 deficit in the playoffs has only happened 13 times in 293 series in NBA history. Game 5 will take place this Wednesday in Boston, with Game 6 (if necessary) scheduled for Friday in New York.