The Boston Celtics suffered a major injury scare on Monday night when star forward Jayson Tatum left the game against the Sacramento Kings after landing on Kings center Domantas Sabonis' foot. Team officials initially ruled Tatum doubtful to return due to an ankle sprain, and he ultimately didn't return to the Celtics' 113-95 victory.

This could have been a disaster for Joe Mazzulla and the Celtics as Tatum is one of the best players in the NBA. The impact on Sabonis' foot did not look pleasant, and Tatum went back to the locker room shortly after a few moments on the floor and draining a free throw. The good news is there are signs the injury isn't all that serious, according to ESPN.

At the moment, the Celtics possess the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference and are looking to win back-to-back titles this season. A bad Tatum injury would have thrown a wrench into this plans, but if it's truly not all that bad, Boston will be fine. Next up on the road trip is a date with the Phoenix Suns.

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Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) loses control of the ball next to Sacramento Kings center Domantas Sabonis (11) in the second quarter at the Golden 1 Center.
Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
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Before he went down with the ankle injury, Tatum was leading the Celtics with 25 points. He was down for a few moments after Sabonis committed a foul on Tatum, and the former Duke Blue Devil landed on his foot.

It was a scary sight to see, as the forward is key to the team's chances of success. Mazzulla and his staff have a deep roster capable of yet another title run, yet it would undoubtedly be tougher without Tatum.

The upcoming schedule features five games on the road and five at home. Boston closes out its current road trip with the matchup at Phoenix followed by a trip to San Antonio to play the Spurs as well as taking on the Memphis Grizzlies on their home court.

A three-game set at home is followed by two road games and the final two games of the season at home, both against the Charlotte Hornets.

So the upcoming slate is forgiving to an extent. Would it be beneficial for the team to give Tatum time to rest and recover before what could be a long playoff run? Probably, and he'll surely be cautious here with the No. 2 seed almost a guarantee at this point.