Boston Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum has been reported as doubtful to play in Game 2 against the Orlando Magic on Wednesday in the first-round of the Eastern Conference playoffs.
The All-Star forward suffered an injury to his right wrist in the fourth quarter of Game 1, during which Boston handily defeated Orlando, 103-86. Tatum contributed 17 points, 14 rebounds and four assists in the lopsided victory.
Tatum told reporters that he fell on his wrist and it started throbbing. The 2017 first-round pick returned to the game but then missed two free throws.
Orlando led Boston at halftime, 49-48, and was down by only 11 points going into the fourth quarter. However, Boston hit five threes in the fourth quarter and was led by Derrick White, who tallied 30 points. White also made a game-high seven three-point shots in the contest.
Despite Tatum’s status, the Celtics have a strong bench and are equipped with enough talent to extend their series lead to 2-0.
Tatum is likely to earn his fourth consecutive First-Team All-NBA selection after averaging 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and six assists this season. The 27-year old forward has averaged at least 23 points for the sixth consecutive season.
Nonetheless, if Boston aims to repeat as NBA champion, it will need Tatum at 100% the rest of the way.
