The Boston Celtics are facing a nightmare scenario ahead of Game 7 against the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday night. Their superstar, Jayson Tatum, has been ruled out due to knee stiffness—a devastating blow for a team that wasn't even supposed to need a decisive game.

Boston's failure to close out the series earlier has forced them into this do-or-die clash. Now, without their leader, the challenge becomes even steeper. Tatum had been the centerpiece of Boston's playoff hopes after returning from a torn Achilles that sidelined him for most of the season. He was supposed to be the difference-maker, the player who could shake off the rust and carry the Celtics through the postseason. But for Boston to get more contributions from him, they'll first have to survive Philadelphia without him.

The injury first appeared in Game 6, when Tatum exited in the third quarter and didn't return. Initially, there was little concern. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla even went so far as to say Tatum wasn't injured at all. He wasn't on the injury report for Game 7 until mid-morning Saturday, when he was added with a questionable tag. Just hours before tip-off, he was ruled out.

This forces everyone else into bigger roles. The silver lining? Boston spent most of the regular season playing without Tatum, so this isn't entirely unfamiliar territory. But it raises an urgent question: How serious is this injury? Will he be ready for a potential next series?

That's a question for after the game. For now, the Celtics have to find a way to win without their star. It's a tall order, but in the playoffs, every team faces adversity. For Boston, the clock is ticking.