Celtics vs Knicks Game 4 Shocker: Tatum Injury and Knicks 3-1 Lead Fuel NBA Drama
The NBA world is buzzing after a heart-stopping Game 4 in the Eastern Conference semifinals between the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks. With the Knicks securing a commanding 3-1 series lead in a 121-113 victory on May 13, 2025, and Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum exiting with a devastating injury, fans are on edge. Why is this matchup trending? It’s not just about the score—it’s the raw emotion, the historic rivalry, and the stakes that could redefine both teams’ seasons.
Background: A Rivalry Renewed with High Stakes
The Celtics and Knicks have a storied rivalry, but for New York, the path to glory has been blocked for decades. The Knicks haven’t reached the Eastern Conference Finals since 2000, while Boston entered this series as heavy favorites. However, New York’s gritty determination, led by Jalen Brunson, and Boston’s mounting injury woes, including Jrue Holiday’s hamstring strain, have flipped the script. This series is now a battle of resilience against reputation, and the tension couldn’t be higher.
Game 4 Breakdown: Knicks Dominate, Tatum Falls
On May 13, 2025, the Knicks delivered a stunning 121-113 win over the Celtics in Game 4, taking a 3-1 series lead as reported by NBC Sports Boston. Jalen Brunson was unstoppable, dropping an incredible 39 points, while the Knicks’ physical play overwhelmed Boston. But the game’s defining moment came in the fourth quarter when Jayson Tatum, after scoring a heroic 42 points, exited with a right leg injury. This could be a turning point for the Celtics, who now face elimination in Game 5 on May 14 at TD Garden.
Emotional Moments: Voices from the Court
The raw emotion of Game 4 was captured in postgame reactions. Knicks guard Josh Hart kept it humble despite the massive win, as reported by Sports Illustrated:
"No statement. We're a good team. We've known that all year... We’ve got to go into this next game with a sense of desperation."
Meanwhile, Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla praised Tatum’s effort before the injury, per ESPN:
"I thought [Tatum] got us off to a great start... with his screening and his ability to get to the rim."
These quotes reveal the contrasting mindsets: New York’s quiet hunger versus Boston’s desperate hope.
Relive the Action: Game 4 Highlights
Want to see the intensity for yourself? Check out the full Game 4 highlights and Brunson’s jaw-dropping performance in these official clips from the NBA YouTube channel.
What’s Next: Game 5 and the Emotional Stakes
As Game 5 looms on May 14, 2025, at TD Garden, the Celtics are in crisis mode. Without Tatum, can they muster the strength to avoid elimination? Meanwhile, Knicks fans are riding a wave of hope, dreaming of their first championship in over 50 years. The debate over whether New York’s aggressive play contributed to Tatum’s injury is heating up, adding fuel to an already fiery rivalry.
Conclusion
✔️ Game 4 has shifted the Celtics-Knicks series dramatically, with New York one win away from the Eastern Conference Finals.
✔️ Tatum’s injury casts a shadow over Boston’s hopes, while Knicks fans dare to dream big—will Game 5 be the end or a new beginning?
