Jayson Tatum fielded one final question at the post-game podium at Xfinity Mobile Arena. He had just helped the Boston Celtics seize a commanding 3-1 series lead over their rivals from Philadelphia. However, that question had nothing to do with him or his team's performance. It was about the harrowing journey Donte DiVincenzo is about to start after tearing his Achilles tendon the night before. It's a path Tatum unfortunately now knows first-hand.
Like the Celtics' star, the injury occurred when he rocked back before accelerating forward, in pursuit of a long rebound after his three-point attempt. Unfortunately, when he went to take off, he found himself on all fours before gently dropping to the ground and reaching for the back of his leg. The eight-year veteran's reaction spoke volumes. Seemingly well-aware of what had just unfolded, he signaled for the training staff's help.
"I was watching the game yesterday, and it was tough seeing that," said Tatum. "I never want anybody to go through that injury and what's to come in the rehab process."
Jayson Tatum can be a guiding light for Donte DiVincenzo
The Minnesota Timberwolves' guard has Tatum to look to as a guiding light for what's possible on the other side of his recovery. He didn't waste any time following that north star. Like Boston's franchise forward, DiVicenzo underwent surgery a day after his injury, traveling to New York to have the procedure done by Dr. Martin O'Malley. That's also who operated on Tatum's Achilles.
And while the four-time All-NBA First Team selection is in the middle of a playoff run with Boston, DiVincenzo now knows that Tatum will be reaching out to lend his support sometime soon.
"I only know him from competing against him and things like that, but I know for a fact I'm gonna reach out to him at some point. It just happened yesterday, and it's a lot going on for him, and I'm glad that he got his surgery today. My thoughts and prayers have been with him, and hopefully it went successful; I have no doubt about that," voiced Tatum.
"I was definitely sick to my stomach yesterday, seeing him go down, because I know exactly how he's feeling. I know exactly what he has to go through, but you know now I'm gonna be a resource, reach out to him. He has me in his corner, whether he's gonna like it or not. So, I'll definitely reach out to him soon."
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