NEW YORK — The New York Knicks dashed the Boston Celtics‘ hopes in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, winning 121-113, but their victory is clouded by a serious injury suffered by Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum. The game took place on May 12, 2025, and with this win, New York takes a commanding 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series.
Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby led the way for the Knicks, combining for 105 points as New York surged ahead to seize control in the fourth quarter. Boston, which held a 14-point lead earlier in the game, struggled in the final stretch after Tatum was carried off the court following a lower right leg injury.
Tatum was a scoring machine before his injury, racking up 42 points on 16-of-28 shooting, including 7-of-15 from three-point range. He was on pace to lead his team to a pivotal victory alongside Jalen Brown, who provided crucial support. However, midway through the fourth quarter, he appeared to twist his ankle on a loose ball play and was visibly in pain as trainers helped him off the court.
After being down by 15 points in the first half, the Knicks rallied back and entered the fourth quarter with a three-point lead. Jalen Brunson, who scored 39 points and dished out 12 assists, stepped up big, making key shots that pushed New York over the top. “We’re playing a really good team, and I don’t think we’re even playing our best basketball yet,” Brunson stated after the game. His performance, especially in the second half, was pivotal for the Knicks.
Bridges and Anunoby both contributed significantly, each scoring over 20 points and providing critical offensive support. Karl-Anthony Towns fortified the rim with his defensive efforts, making it tough for Boston to find their rhythm.
In stark contrast to their previous games, where they faltered after building sizeable leads, the Knicks soared past adversity in this match. They executed a nearly flawless second half, outscoring the Celtics by 22 points as they shot 54.3% from the field.
Despite the victory, the Knicks faced immediate concern regarding Tatum’s injury. Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla described Tatum’s condition as a lower body injury and mentioned that an MRI would take place the following day. “It’s tough to see a guy like him get carried off,” said Mazzulla, emphasizing the importance of Tatum to the team.
After the game, sentiments regarding Tatum’s injury echoed throughout New York, where players and fans alike expressed their concern. Jaylen Brown commented, “It’s tough,” acknowledging the weight of the injury on the team’s morale and future. Al Horford, a veteran on the Celtics, also expressed his worry, stating, “The loss is the loss. More importantly, it’s Jayson (Tatum) I’m worried about.”
Looking ahead, the Knicks have a clear opportunity as they prepare for Game 5 in Boston on Wednesday. With their momentum building and a potential absence of Tatum, they stand on the brink of their first trip to the Eastern Conference finals in 25 years. Though they relish this moment, the shadow of doubt looms large around Tatum’s condition, a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the NBA playoffs.
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