Jayson Tatum spoke with reporters on Tuesday after participating in parts of practice with the Maine Celtics on Monday, a major development in his rehab after suffering a torn Achilles tendon in the 2025 playoffs. Fans were rightfully ecstatic about that news, as it's another sign that the Boston Celtics superstar could return this season, but he wasn't ready to say that.
He specifically said that the news doesn't mean he's coming back or that he isn't (subscription required). He framed it as "just another step" in the plan. Tatum's focus is on being "100 percent healthy," whenever that may be.
The Celtics aren't rushing him back, although they currently sit third in the East with a 34-19 record. Brad Stevens explicitly said that Tatum faces no pressure from the organization to return, and that when he does, it will be because he's healthy, cleared to return, and ready (not just physically, but also mentally).
Fans are waiting for the update that Jayson Tatum will play this season
Nobody outside of Boston thought that the Celtics would fare as well as they have this season without Tatum. They're in a position to make a run in the playoffs, whether he returns or not, but if he does, they could be one of the last (maybe even the last) teams standing.
It would be a comeback story for the ages if he suits up and helps them win their second title in three seasons. You've probably already dreamed about that exact scenario as a fan (how could you not?), but don't get too far ahead of yourself. Tatum has progressed exceptionally well in his rehab, but as he said, he still has "a ways to go" before he plays.
His return is a lot closer now than it was, though. There are about two months left in the regular season, and if he is cleared and ready to play, it would be optimal to do so at least a couple of weeks before then, giving him time to reacclimate to playing live basketball with new and familiar faces.
Tatum won't ruin what the Celtics have going on, though, not by any stretch of the imagination, although that's what the other top teams in the East are hoping, knowing it won't happen. He's Jayson Tatum. Everyone knows what he brings on both ends of the floor.
He isn't ready to say that he will play this season, at least not publicly, but it could be coming. If that moment happens, you can bet Boston will be ready. The city and fans have been waiting.