SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — The Boston Celtics triumphed over the Sacramento Kings 113-95 on March 24, 2025, but the highlight of the match was overshadowed by an injury to star player Jayson Tatum. Tatum was a powerhouse during the game, contributing 25 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists before leaving the court with a disturbing ankle injury late in the third quarter.
The injury unfolded after Tatum made a spectacular contested three-pointer, his fifth of the evening, only to have his landing disrupted by Kings center Domantas Sabonis, who is 6-foot-11. Sabonis was called for a Flagrant 1 foul after stepping into Tatum's landing space. The impact of the foul was severe enough that Tatum fell to the floor, writhing in pain for several moments. He was escorted to the bench, where trainers evaluated his condition.
Despite being visibly affected by the injury, Tatum managed to shoot one of two free throws, extending the Celtics' lead to 79-68 with 3:35 left in the third quarter. Afterward, he headed to the locker room, where the Celtics' medical staff assessed his injury.
As Tatum left the game, concerns rose among fans and players alike. Moments later, an update reported him as doubtful to return due to a sprained ankle. This situation raises questions about his availability for the remaining fixtures in the season, particularly since the Celtics are pushing for a strong finish heading into the playoffs.
The Celtics' victory was pivotal, marking their sixth consecutive win, with each player stepping up to fill the void Tatum's absence might create. Kristaps Porzingis, who had missed the prior game, made a significant impact with 16 points and seven rebounds. Additionally, Payton Pritchard scored 20 points while Derrick White contributed 12 points and eight assists in Tatum's absence.
Meanwhile, the Kings had their own stars shining. DeMar DeRozan registered 20 points and 10 assists, while Sabonis finished with 16 points and a remarkable 17 rebounds. Despite the strong performance from their roster, they were unable to overcome the Celtics' stifling defense and long-range shooting.
A key statistic highlighted in this matchup was the Celtics’ remarkable shooting from behind the arc. They sank 19 three-pointers, a remarkable feat that has become a trademark of their offensive strategy. This represents the 70th time in 72 games this season they have reached double digits for shots made beyond the 3-point line.
Looking ahead, the Celtics are on a crucial six-game road trip, with a game against the Phoenix Suns looming on March 26. Tatum’s status remains uncertain, contributing to the mounting tension for a team striving to secure a top position in the Eastern Conference.
As the regular season progresses, Boston currently stands five games behind the Cleveland Cavaliers for the number one seed in the conference, while being comfortably ahead of New York by 7.5 games. With the regular season winding down and only ten games remaining, the Celtics are expected to exercise caution with Tatum to ensure he is fit for postseason action.
Fans now await updates on Tatum’s condition as the Celtics gear up for what promises to be an intense stretch run. The stakes have risen, and every player's performance will be magnified as the playoff picture starts to crystallize.
