A video began circulating on social media in mid-October.
Taken out of context, it wouldn't have been a big deal. It showed Boston Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum jumping off two feet to dunk.
Tatum has dunked a lot in his life. That's what happens when you're a 6-foot-8 basketball star.
But this was different. Tatum is coming back from a torn Achilles. This felt like a major milestone.
It's still a long road back for Tatum. But he's on his way.
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When will Jayson Tatum be back?
Tatum does appear more and more likely to play in the 2025-26 NBA season.
NBC Sports Boston's Chris Forsberg predicted that Tatum could be back as soon as February.
“The speculation is going to be perpetual, especially once Tatum is able to start really cranking up his on-court work," Forsberg said. "There are plenty of steps to navigate and the Celtics must exercise maximum caution with the long term in mind. But we threw a dart at March while predicting a potential Tatum return date over the summer, and we’re already eager to update our forecast.”
The Athletic recently speculated at a March return for Tatum.
The initial hope for Celtics fans when Tatum went down with his torn Achilles during the playoffs was that maybe, just maybe, he'd heal up in time for a 2026 postseason run.
But now, he might get back with a month or more remaining in the regular season? That'd be better than any mid-season trade acquisition Boston could make.
"Tatum Watch" will be on until he's back, that's for sure.
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