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Will Jayson Tatum be ready for the playoffs? A former NBA champion weighs in
In eight games since March 6, Tatum has averaged 19.1 points and 8.9 rebounds on a minutes restriction, aiding the Celtics’ playoff contention, coach Joe Mazzulla said.
- On March 6, Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum returned to the lineup 300 days after tearing his Achilles tendon in the 2025 NBA Playoffs. The 28-year-old has appeared in eight games since his delayed season debut.
- Head coach Joe Mazzulla praised Tatum's integration, saying he has 'exceeded' initial expectations for his return despite averaging 19.1 points on 38.8% field-goal percentage in limited minutes. Mazzulla emphasized modest baseline expectations focused on gradual improvement.
- Tatum acknowledged his shooting struggles are 'frustrating' after going scoreless in the first half of Sunday's loss to Minnesota, yet he noted recovery is 'obviously going to take some time.' He averages 8.9 rebounds defensively.
- The Celtics hold a 6-2 record with Tatum in the lineup and maintain a 47-24 season record while fighting the New York Knicks for the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference. Boston sits just ahead of New York in standings.
- Analyst Iman Shumpert remains confident in Tatum's trajectory, stating, 'When May 1st comes, he'll be ready' for the postseason. The first 40 to 50 games after an Achilles return typically reveal a player's long-term post-injury outcome.
11 Articles
11 Articles
Celtics Urged To Make LeBron James Decision On Jayson Tatum Amid Return Struggles
Jayson Tatum has returned for the Boston Celtics just 300 days after tearing his Achilles tendon in the 2025 NBA Playoffs, and while he does add a new dimension to the team, the return of the 28-year-old has come with some struggles.Specifically, as it relates to shooting the ball and the Celtics immediately slotting Tatum back in as the team’s second option behind MVP candidate and All-NBA forward Jaylen Brown, who has proven he can lead a fran…
“Takes Some Ups and Downs”: Jaylen Brown Shows Full Faith in Jayson Tatum Amid Post-Injury Struggles
Standing by his brother, Jaylen Brown made his belief clear about Jayson Tatum. Right from the Finals MVP debate, several narratives tested the Boston Celtics superstar duo. Despite that, they stood rock solid. Now, they have another test in front of them with JT returning to the floor from Achilles rehab. This time, it’s bigger and has far greater stakes. However, Brown, unfazed by the stakes, confidently backed his brother. As promised ahead o…
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