Coach Joe Mazzulla Confident Jayson Tatum's Injury Is Not Severe

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla remains hopeful that superstar Jayson Tatum will return to action soon after leaving Monday’s game against the Sacramento Kings with a sprained left ankle. The Celtics secured a 113-95 victory despite Tatum exiting the game late in the third quarter following a hard foul.

At the time of his injury, Tatum was the leading scorer for the Celtics. The six-time All-Star had just nailed a contested 3-pointer when he was fouled by the Kings’ 6-foot-11 center, Domantas Sabonis, resulting in a Flagrant 1 foul. Tatum landed awkwardly on Sabonis’ foot and immediately fell to the court in pain.

“He seems to be doing alright,” Mazzulla commented. “I didn’t witness the play, but it was the right call. Thankfully, he was able to take the free throws. He’s managing it now.”

After a brief examination on the court by the Celtics’ medical team, Tatum was helped to the bench. He managed to return and sank one of his two free throws, extending Boston’s lead to 79-68 with 3:35 remaining in the third quarter, before heading to the locker room.

Post-game, Tatum was seen limping around the Celtics’ locker room, ending the night with 25 points. He was not available for media interviews but spoke briefly with Mazzulla.

“I just asked him how he was doing, and he replied ‘OK,’” Mazzulla shared. “He’s committed to doing everything necessary to recover quickly.”