Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum has been ruled out for the pivotal game seven against the Philadelphia 76ers. The announcement came just hours before tip-off, adding pressure to the Celtics as they fight for a spot in the Eastern Conference finals.
Tatum had been listed as 'questionable' prior to the game, but head coach Joe Mazulla confirmed that the forward is experiencing significant discomfort in his left knee.
This news follows Tatum's exit late in the third quarter during the Celtics' game-six loss to the Sixers. Although he initially downplayed his injury after the game, the situation worsened, leading to his exclusion from the crucial match.
Tatum's injury is particularly concerning given his history; he missed the first 62 games of the current season after rupturing his right Achilles tendon during last year's playoffs.
The Celtics, who held a commanding 3-1 series lead, have now dropped two consecutive games to the Sixers, making this upcoming match crucial.
This will be the 23rd playoff meeting between Boston and Philadelphia, with the Celtics having won the last six encounters. They have previously eliminated Sixers star Joel Embiid from the playoffs three times.