The Boston Celtics just got a major boost.
Jayson Tatum, the team’s superstar forward, has officially been cleared to play in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series against the Orlando Magic, the team announced prior to tip-off. Tatum had missed Game 2 due to a bone bruise in his right wrist, suffered after a hard fall in Game 1. Despite his absence, the Celtics still managed to secure a dominant win and now lead the series 2-0.
Tatum’s return couldn’t be more timely. The 6-time All-Star has been the heartbeat of Boston’s offense all season, averaging 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game — leading the team in all three major categories.
While Tatum is back in the lineup, the Celtics will be without veteran guard Jrue Holiday, who’s sidelined due to a hamstring injury. Holiday’s presence as a lockdown defender and secondary playmaker has been a key part of Boston’s 61-win season.
According to head coach Joe Mazzulla, Tatum pushed hard to be ready for Game 2, going through all possible pregame protocols. Ultimately, he wasn’t cleared — marking the first playoff game he’s missed in his career after suiting up for 114 straight postseason contests.
“He’s dealing with a severe bone bruise,” Mazzulla said on 98.5 The Sports Hub. “He’s progressively gotten a little bit better each day.”
Tatum, who helped lead the Celtics to a championship just last year and owns two Olympic gold medals, will look to help Boston take a commanding 3-0 series lead in Orlando tonight.
Game 3 tips off at 7 PM ET on ESPN.
