Concern for Celtics Jayson Tatum After Ankle Injury During Dominant Win Over Kings

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SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP)— Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla expressed hope that star player Jayson Tatum won’t be sidelined for an extended period after he left Monday’s matchup against the Sacramento Kings late in the third quarter due to a tough foul that injured his left ankle.

At the time of the injury, Tatum was the Celtics’ leading scorer. He had just made a challenging 3-pointer when he was fouled by Kings center Domantas Sabonis, who stands 6-foot-11 and received a Flagrant 1 foul for the contact. Tatum’s right foot landed on Sabonis’ foot, causing him to hit the ground quickly.

“He appears to be alright,” Mazzulla stated. “I didn’t witness the incident, but they made the correct call. It’s fortunate he was able to take the free throws. (He’s) managing it right now.”

Tatum was on the floor for a few moments while the Celtics’ medical staff checked on him. He was assisted to the bench but returned to the game long enough to sink one of two free throws, increasing Boston’s lead to 79-68 with 3:35 remaining in the third quarter before heading to the locker room. The Celtics ultimately won the game 113-95.

Post-game, Tatum, who ended with 25 points, walked cautiously through the Celtics’ locker area but did not speak to the media.

“I just asked him how he was feeling and he responded, ‘OK,’” Mazzulla shared. “He’s committed to doing whatever it takes to ensure he recovers.”