The Boston Celtics' hopes of repeating as NBA champions are rapidly slipping away as they trail the New York Knicks 3-1 in their second-round playoff series. Compounding the crisis is the uncertainty surrounding Jayson Tatum, who suffered a noncontact lower-body injury late in Game 4 and is awaiting MRI results to determine the severity.

According to Jay King of The Athletic, the Celtics could be facing a “greater shakeup than anticipated” if Tatum’s injury is as serious as feared. While speculation about roster retooling had already circulated due to looming financial challenges, a long-term absence for Tatum may force Boston’s front office to reassess its long-term direction more aggressively.

Jayson Tatum’s injury could force Celtics to rethink expensive core

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The Celtics are facing significant salary cap constraints. Retaining their starting five as constructed would cost the organization upwards of $500 million next season once luxury taxes are factored in. Tatum will earn $54.1 million, followed by Jaylen Brown at $53.1 million, Jrue Holiday at $32.4 million, Kristaps Porzingis at $30.7 million, and Derrick White at $28.1 million.

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Veteran big man Al Horford, whose $9.5 million contract expires this offseason, is also entering his age-39 season, while Holiday will be 35. The Celtics’ potential decision to pivot toward younger, more cost-effective options could impact both players — especially if Tatum’s timeline for recovery extends into next season.

Tatum’s injury now not only threatens Boston’s current playoff run but could also become a central factor in shaping the franchise’s offseason strategy.

While the team has been among the NBA’s most consistent contenders in recent years, the combination of a potentially significant injury to its franchise cornerstone and an unsustainable payroll may prompt Boston to make bold decisions.

Game 5 of the Celtics-Knicks series is Wednesday night at TD Garden. Whether Tatum is available or not, Boston will be fighting to avoid elimination while its future looms increasingly uncertain.