Jason Tatum has been the heartbeat of this Boston Celtics team since he was drafted. From a 19-year-old rising star to an NBA champion, Tatum has seen it all. However, how well can the Boston Celtics fare without their fearless leader? Tatum has been officially listed as doubtful for Game 2 of the NBA playoffs’ first round. Boston is taking on the Orlando Magic and currently has a one-to-nothing series lead. Although could Orlando steal one on the road without Tatum in the lineup?
Yahoo Sports states that it has not been officially confirmed that Jason Tatum will not play in Game 2, but all signs point to the star being out. Realistically speaking, the Celtics should be able to win this series even if Tatum didn’t play a single game. However, that kind of thinking can get teams into some trouble. The NBA playoffs are as competitive as it gets. The Magic, while being a lower seed, are still a respectable team. Boston needs to approach this game as if they were playing another top team in the league. If they don’t, things could go a little south. During Game One of the series, Tatum took a nasty fall on an attempted dunk. While he appeared fine at first, it has been confirmed that the champion has a bone bruise on his wrist.
Jason Tatum Ruled As Doubtful For Game 2 of the NBA Playoffs’ First Round
At first, it had appeared that Tatum may have injured his wrist by hitting it on the rim. However, Jason later told fans, “I just fell on it.” Although how Tatum hurt his wrist is hardly important anymore. What is truly important is that it was not a serious injury. Despite how many feel about Boston and Tatum, nobody wants to see a serious injury ruin such a promising career.
Now that Tatum will most likely not play in Game 2, the Orlando Magic absolutely have to capitalize if they want any chance at even making this an interesting series. Going down 2-0 to the defending champs is not a winning formula in the slightest. Orlando is a very young team, though. The inexperience could be the deciding factor in the series, especially if Jason Tatum misses multiple games.
Jason Tatum and his Boston Celtics know what it takes to win at the NBA’s highest level. On the other hand, the Magic are still trying to learn what it takes. This Orlando team is tough, don’t get it twisted. However, Boston’s star power may end up being too much, even without Tatum’s help.
Trevor Joseph 
Dylan Cook 
