Jayson Tatum Breaks 114-Game Playoff Streak

Jayson Tatum’s streak of 114 consecutive playoff games will be broken tonight. He has been ruled out for game two against the Orlando Magic after suffering a bone bruise on his right wrist. The Boston Celtics defeated the Magic 103-86 in game one of their first-round series, but Tatum took a hard fall in the fourth quarter. He stayed in the game, but the injury has lingered. Tatum rarely misses games, evident by the 114-game streak of playoff games, meaning this injury could be more severe and affect Boston’s championship hopes.

Jayson Tatum’s Injury

Tatum was fouled by Kentavious Caldwell-Pope when he went up for a dunk, causing the wrist injury. He continued to play, even making a deep three to help the Celtics secure the victory, but according to a Shams Charania report, he suffered a bone bruise. He was initially ruled day-to-day and doubtful for game two. This is especially concerning because Tatum is someone who tries to play through injuries. Earlier in March, he only missed one game after an ankle sprain. However, this bone bruise on his shooting wrist is clearly serious if he is missing a playoff game. This could not only impact the first-round series against the Magic but also the entire playoffs.

Last season, Tatum led the Celtics in points, rebounds and assists during their run to the NBA championship. This season was also one of his best, averaging 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds and six assists per game. Without him, the Celtics will have a gaping hole to fill. Even if he comes back for game three in Orlando, this injury could linger and hinder his performance. Jaylen Brown entered the playoffs with a knee injury and may not be 100%, while other players like Kristaps Porzingis have their injury concerns.

Final Thoughts

Tatum is the engine that makes the Celtics run, so missing him for any game is a massive loss. Boston fans will hope he can recover for game three, but also that the team does not fall behind in his absence against a feisty Magic team.