Boston Celtics fans were hit hard with distressing news following a devastating injury to star player Jayson Tatum during Monday night's game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.

In the final moments of the game, Tatum suffered a ruptured right Achilles tendon, leading to immediate surgery. While the Celtics have not announced a return timeline, anticipation suggests he may miss the entirety of the 2025-26 season.

Host Marc Bertrand of 98.5 The Sports Hub stirred up conversation among fans during his recent broadcast of "Zolak and Bertrand," presenting alarming statistics from a study on Achilles tendon injuries in the NBA.

"A research study titled 'Economic and Performance Analysis of Achilles Tendon Rupture in The National Basketball Association' revealed the harsh realities of such injuries. Out of 37 players analyzed, eight never played again, while 78% managed to make a return to the court," Bertrand explained. He added that while it seems hopeful that Tatum will join that majority, historical data shows a stark reality: only 27% of returning players regain their prior level of play.

This sobering statistic leaves fans wondering if Tatum can rise above the odds as he is only 27, compared to the study's average injury age of 28. Despite his exceptional durability throughout his career and versatile skill set, recovering his previous stardom will be a challenging journey.

While fans remain optimistic Tatum will return stronger, the road to recovery is fraught with uncertainty. The question now looms: Can he defy the statistics and reclaim his place among NBA elites?