Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum, known for his durability, rarely misses games. This season, he`s only been out for six games and has never missed more than eight in a season. However, during Monday`s game against the Sacramento Kings, in which the Celtics won 113-95, Tatum experienced an unfortunate incident in the third quarter.
While playing against Domantas Sabonis, Tatum attempted a three-point shot. Sabonis, in an attempt to contest, moved his foot into Tatum`s landing space. Tatum landed on Sabonis` foot and immediately fell to the ground in pain. He was helped to the locker room and did not return to the game. The Celtics later announced it was a left ankle sprain.
The foul by Sabonis was called a flagrant-1, a rule established after a similar incident in the 2017 Western Conference finals where Kawhi Leonard was injured. This rule penalizes defenders who step into the landing zone of a shooter. Tatum remained in the game to shoot his free throws but then exited.
Fortunately for Tatum and the Celtics, the team is in a comfortable position as the playoffs approach. Tatum has played enough games to qualify for All-NBA selection. Boston is likely to secure the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference, giving them the flexibility to be cautious with Tatum`s injury and recovery as they prepare for the postseason.
Ankle sprains can be problematic, especially high-ankle sprains which take longer to heal. The severity of the sprain will also determine the recovery time.
For now, the Celtics can only hope that Tatum`s ankle sprain will heal quickly and won`t affect his availability for the playoffs.
