Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum is amid another All-NBA season. Entering Monday night’s game against the Sacramento Kings, Tatum was averaging 27.2 points, 8.7 rebounds and 5.9 assists in 65 games for the defending champions.

Alongside reigning Finals MVP Jaylen Brown, Tatum has helped lead Boston to a 53-19 record that ranks second in the Eastern Conference standings. Turning in another strong performance on Monday, Tatum tallied 25 points, seven rebounds and eight assists in just 26 minutes of action.

Suffering an ankle injury in the third quarter, Tatum landed on the foot of Kings center Domantas Sabonis who was charged with a Flagrant 1 for recklessly closing out. 

Tatum was helped back to the locker room where he spent the rest of the game. Announcing an official update shortly after this play, the Celtics revealed the unfortunate news that Tatum had suffered a left ankle sprain and was doubtful to return.

“Celtics Injury Report Update vs. Sacramento: Jayson Tatum – Left Ankle Sprain – DOUBTFUL TO RETURN,” the team announced.

Leading Sacramento 88-78 after three quarters, Boston was forced to close out this game without its best player, and was able to do so by a final score of 113-95. The concern now becomes a potential extended absence for the four-time All-NBA forward.

The Celtics have 10 regular season games remaining before beginning their title defense in the playoffs. Almost guaranteed to finish second in the Eastern Conference, Boston can afford to take its time with Tatum if necessary, but certainly hopes to have him available when the postseason begins.