Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum will play Friday against the Brooklyn Nets despite suffering an eye injury during Tuesday's Game 2 defeat.

Tatum participated in practice Thursday, telling reporters afterward, "I'm good. I'm ready for tomorrow," according to the Boston Globe's Gary Washburn.

The 23-year-old checked out at the 8:48 mark of the third quarter after Kevin Durant struck him in the face. Boston ultimately lost 130-108.

A foul was not called on the play, and according to the two-time All-Star, it's not entirely clear why he's not afforded the same protection that referees grant the league's other marquee players.

"Everybody likes to talk about when you get to superstar status you get those calls. That's something I'm still trying to figure out," Tatum said, according to The Athletic's Jay King.

Tatum's participation in Friday's pivotal contest is a massive boost for a Celtics team in a 2-0 hole as the series shifts to Boston. Brad Stevens and Co. could be without point guard Kemba Walker, who is listed as questionable due to a left knee medial bone bruise.