The Boston Celtics opened their 2025 playoff campaign with a 103-86 win over the Orlando Magic on Sunday night at TD Garden. The defense was sharp, the ball movement fluid, and the energy from the crowd electric as the Celtics asserted their dominance in Game 1 of the first-round series. But while the win set the tone for the series, the postgame conversation quickly shifted to concern for Jayson Tatum.
On Tuesday, NBA insider Shams Charania reported that an MRI had revealed a bone bruise on Tatum’s shooting wrist. The Celtics later confirmed that the injury was a “right distal radius bone bruise.” As a result, Tatum is listed as doubtful ahead of Game 2, scheduled for Wednesday night at TD Garden.
Injury Report for tomorrow vs. Orlando:
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) April 22, 2025
Jayson Tatum (right distal radius bone bruise) – DOUBTFUL
The injury occurred midway through Game 1. Tatum suffered a hard fall that visibly shook him. The All-Star forward landed awkwardly and clutched his wrist in pain before being escorted to the Magic’s X-ray room for evaluation.
Initially, Tatum downplayed the injury in the postgame press conference, telling reporters, “It was just throbbing for a second.” His statement offered some relief at the moment but later reports painted a more serious picture.
Joe Mazzulla’s Tough Love For Jayson Tatum In The Heat Of The Moment
One moment that caught attention during Tatum’s fall was Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla’s reaction. As Tatum hit the floor and appeared to be in pain, the team’s trainer started to rush onto the court. But Mazzulla stopped him and shouted at Tatum, “Get up!”
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The bold gesture quickly went viral, and during the postgame press conference, Mazzulla was asked what prompted his response. “Love,” Mazzulla said without hesitation.
Despite shooting just 8-for-22 from the field in Game 1, Tatum still managed to contribute with 17 points, 14 rebounds, and four assists in Game 1. With Game 2 approaching, all eyes will remain on Tatum’s status.
