Jayson Tatum is in a tough spot with the Boston Celtics, 32 games into the year.
Tatum, who suffered an Achilles injury against the New York Knicks in last season’s Eastern Conference Semifinals, hasn’t been ruled out for the entire 2025-26 campaign, leaving the door open for an eventual return (especially considering the Celtics are primed to reach the postseason).
However, rushing back to the hardwood could come back to haunt the NBA champion forward in the worst way imaginable. That said, Tatum has taken the necessary steps to return to action, and according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, the Duke product is eager to rejoin the Celtics at some point this season.
How does Windhorst’s report impact Boston? Well, if anything, Jaylen Brown and the Celtics should feel extra motivated to remain in the Eastern Conference playoff picture.
It would be pointless for Tatum to work his way back into the Celtics’ starting lineup only for the franchise to be on the outside looking in when the postseason arrives.
The Celtics are currently benefiting from a weakened Eastern Conference, as their 20-12 record has earned them the No. 3 seed in late-December. If Boston continues on their current trajectory, it shouldn't experience any issues making the playoffs this season.
In that case, there would be a legitimate possibility of a late-season Tatum sighting in Boston.
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