While the injury shouldn't derail Tatum's career, it does give the Celtics a major obstacle to overcome. Boston has been to the conference finals five times and has had a pair of NBA Finals appearances—including a win last year—since 2017. Much of that success, especially over the past five or so years, has been largely due to Tatum.

Jayson Tatum was ruled out for the remainder of the NBA Playoffs and beyond after suffering a ruptured Achilles in the final minutes of Game 4. The former Duke standout underwent surgery the very next day (Tuesday) and will start the long recovery process.

If one event can dramatically alter even the most sustainable team-building strategy, is it even possible to maintain a championship window?