Tatum Returns to MSG Where He Tore His Achilles — Knicks Win 112-106

Jayson Tatum walked back onto the Madison Square Garden floor for the first time since the worst moment of his career. Eleven months ago, he ruptured his Achilles tendon on this same court during the Eastern Conference semifinals. Thursday night, he came back and put up 24 points, 13 rebounds, and 8 assists.

The crowd gave him a standing ovation during introductions. Jalen Brunson said he was genuinely happy to see Tatum healthy and back. But sentiment aside, the Knicks had a game to win — and they did. Josh Hart exploded for 15 of his 26 points in the fourth quarter, and Brunson finished with 25 and 10 assists as New York pulled away 112-106.

The loss stings for Boston, who played without Jaylen Brown due to left Achilles tendinitis. The Celtics (54-26) still hold the 2-seed, but the Knicks (52-28) are now just two games back with two left to play. The seeding race in the East isn't over yet.