The last straw that defeated the camels, Tatum s injury may lead to a larger lineup change than expected

NBA rumors say the Boston Celtics could face major adjustments after Jason Tatum was injured and the team was 1-3 behind the New York Knicks. The Boston Celtics trailed the New York Knicks 1-3 in the second round of the playoffs, and their hopes of defending the NBA championship are quickly shattering. There is also uncertainty about Jason Tatum's injury, which exacerbates the crisis. He suffered a contactless lower limb injury later in the fourth game and is currently awaiting MRI results to determine the severity of the injury.

If Tatum's injury is really as severe as people fear, the Celtics could face "a bigger roster change than expected," according to The Athletic's Jay King. While speculations about a lineup restructuring have spread due to imminent financial challenges, Tatum’s long absence could force Boston management to reassess its long-term development direction more aggressively.

Jason Tatum's injury and imminent financial pressure could force the Celtics to reconsider the expensive veteran core roster.

Celtics are currently facing severe salary cap restrictions. If the existing starting lineup is retained, the team will lose more than $500 million next season (this does not include luxury tax). Tatum’s salary is expected to reach $54.1 million, followed by Jaylen Brown, who earns $53.1 million; Ju Holiday, who earns $32.4 million; Christapus Porzingis, who earns $30.7 million; Derek White, who earns $28.1 million.

Experienced big man Al Horford, whose $9.5 million contract expires in the offseason, will also enter the 39-year-old season, and Holiday will also turn 35. The Celtics may decide to turn to younger, more economical options, and both players may be affected – especially if Tatum’s recovery time is extended to next season.

Tatum's injury not only threatens Boston's current playoff journey, but may also become a core factor in the team's offseason strategy. Although the team has been one of the NBA's most stable contenders in recent years, the potential major injuries on the franchise cornerstone and the difficult-to-maintain total salary may prompt Boston to make a bold decision. The fifth game of the Celtics vs. Knicks Series will be held Wednesday night at TD Garden Arena. Whether Tatum can play or not, Boston will work hard to avoid being eliminated, and their future prospects are becoming increasingly confusing.