There’s an old saying, actions speak louder than words, and that has long been true when it comes to professional sports in many ways. It has been especially true when it comes to the Boston Celtics, who have been one of the most tight-lipped organizations in the NBA for years, with inside information seldom leaking out from the team.
So, it should come as no surprise that everyone from the players, to the coaches, to those in the front office has taken that same approach when it comes to Jayson Tatum’s recovery from an achilles tear.
Every comment and report has been extremely positive, but nobody has actually come out and said whether Tatum will return this season, or even come close to putting any kind of timeline on a potential comeback.
But ESPN’s Brian Windhorst pointed out that old mantra on the Rich Eisen Show recently, reminding people that actions indeed speak louder than words, and all of the actions from Tatum and the Celtics indicate that he’s going to return this season, likely very soon.
Celtics’ actions point to a Tatum comeback
Tatum chose to hold a public workout several weeks ago in front of the media. Then it was reported that he scrimmaged with the coaches. Then the Maine Celtics were brought to the Auerbach Center to practice with Tatum. And in the process, they traded away one of their primary ball-handlers and scorers in Anfernee Simons for another center.
Words are whatever. Those are actions. And those actions all suggest that Tatum’s ramp-up is leading to a comeback. The roster balancing trade is even further proof, as JT would take on a lot more of the duties being filled by Simons.
Windy even added how well this is working out as the Celtics are in a position where they don’t need Tatum to play well in March or April, but if he is playing well, by May, that would be a major problem for the rest of the league, and turn Boston into a major threat to win the East and even compete for the title.
There are still hurdles to clear and boxes to check. Tatum has to be feeling 100% physically and mentally, and everyone involved in the decision must feel fully confident to proceed. But the proceedings make it clear that it’s well within play, and if things keep going in this direction, we are going to see JT making his season debut any day now.