NEW YORK — The Knicks pulled off a dramatic Game 4 win over the Celtics on Monday night to take a commanding 3-1 lead in their best-of-seven series.
Following a crucial Knicks win, much of the focus postgame remained on Celtics star Jayson Tatum after he suffered a right leg injury in the fourth quarter. Tatum was helped off the court by Boston trainers after suffering the injury on a non-contact play, failing to put any weight on his foot.
Celtics players talked openly about their concern for their teammate but the Knicks showed plenty of regard for their opponent as well. Here’s how the Knicks responded to the injury after Game 4:
Tom Thibodeau: “I never want to see a player get hurt, and I know he’s been a great player and he’s a great guy, too, so I hope it’s not a serious injury.”
Karl-Anthony Towns: “I’ve been in a situation like that with my calf. I just walked up, obviously respectfully of his space. I just put my head down and prayed to my mother, prayed to God, to put protection over him and comfort. Whatever the injury may be, I hope it’s minor like I said. Whatever the process he has to go through, hopefully is a quick painless process and see him back in the NBA. The NBA needs that kind of superstar talent that he is. I know we’re competing at the highest level in the playoffs, but this is a brotherhood.”
Jalen Brunson: “I thought he rolled his ankle. Obviously, we want to go out there and compete but when a player of his caliber goes down and he is rolling in pain and you know something is wrong. That’s why I gave my thoughts and prayers because you don’t want to see something like that ever.”
Mitchell Robinson: “I hope he’s alright, man. I’ve been dealing with injuries almost my whole career. I really hope he’s all right. You don’t want to see a guy go through stuff like that. I’m gonna pray for him, make sure he’s straight.”
