The NBA Playoffs: Basketball's Worst Injury Strikes Three Times

The 2025 NBA playoffs will be remembered for all the unfortunate reasons. Three prominent players fell victim to the same devastating injury—torn Achilles tendons—during the most critical games of the year.

The Injuries That Shocked Basketball

The first injury occurred in Game 4 of the opening round. Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard was pursuing a rebound when he pushed off his left foot, only to collapse unexpectedly to the ground. He instinctively grabbed his ankle and struggled to rise. The atmosphere in the arena turned somber as realizing dawned upon everyone that something was gravely amiss.

A few weeks later, Boston Celtics star Jason Tatum found himself diving for a loose ball in Game 4 against the New York Knicks. He remained on the court, writhing in agony while the game progressed in his absence. Players and fans alike recognized immediately that the situation was dire.

The most devastating moment transpired in Game 7 of the NBA Finals. Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton had been delivering an extraordinary performance, sinking three-pointer after three-pointer. However, after catching a pass and attempting to drive toward the basket, he suddenly collapsed, banging the floor in anguish. His team's aspirations for securing their first championship were abruptly dashed.

All three players experienced the same alarming sound—a loud "pop" resonating from their calf muscles. This is the primary indicator of a torn Achilles tendon. Consequently, all three will be sidelined for the entirety of the 2025-2026 season.

What Is an Achilles Tear?

The Achilles tendon functions similarly to a robust rubber band, connecting the calf muscle to the heel bone. It is essential for activities such as walking, running, and jumping. When it tears, it resembles that rubber band snapping into two pieces.

This injury is particularly detrimental for basketball players due to their need for explosive jumps and quick changes in direction. When the Achilles tendon tears, athletes find it difficult to effectively push off their foot.

The Long Road Back

Recovering from an Achilles tear is an arduous process that demands a considerable amount of time. Initially, medical professionals must perform surgery to reattach the tendon. Following the operation, players are required to wear a boot for several weeks and are unable to place weight on the affected foot.

Typically, the healing process spans 9 to 12 months. Players commence with basic exercises that involve moving their ankles up and down. Gradually, they incorporate walking, followed by light jogging, and ultimately running and jumping.

Even after their return to the court, certain players may never feel quite the same. The tendon may remain weaker than it was previously, and players often harbor concerns about the risk of reinjury.

Why Did This Happen?

Experiencing three Achilles tears in a single playoff is an uncommon occurrence. Several factors may elucidate this phenomenon:

Players are now larger and stronger than ever before, which places additional strain on their tendons. Furthermore, the lengthy NBA season—comprising 82 games plus playoffs—can lead to fatigue and wear on players’ bodies.

Many Achilles tears occur subsequent to calf strains that fail to heal adequately. When the calf muscle is either tight or weakened, it exerts increased pressure on the Achilles tendon.

Preventing Future Injuries

Teams are actively exploring strategies to enhance player health and minimize injury risks. Proposed measures include:

• Improved stretching and warm-up routines prior to games
• Strengthening exercises for calf muscles during practice sessions
• Increased rest days during the prolonged season

Some fans advocate for a reduction in the length of the NBA season to alleviate player fatigue, while others suggest that the pace of the games should decelerate to lessen the demands on players.

Even though all three stars are confronting the same challenging rehabilitation timetable, their long-term prognoses vary by age. Tyrese Haliburton and Jayson Tatum are both in their mid-20s, providing their tendons a greater likelihood of regaining full strength and affording their bodies ample time to readjust to the speed of the NBA. Conversely, Damian Lillard will reach 35 before he can return to the court. Players in their mid-30s often face extended recovery periods to rebuild explosive power, and an injury of this nature could hasten the inevitable decline associated with aging.

The 2025 playoffs clearly demonstrated how swiftly careers can shift. While basketball will undoubtedly continue, these injuries serve as poignant reminders of the physical demands placed upon players' bodies.