Ramona ShelburneJan 29, 2026, 12:38 AM ET
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Senior writer for ESPN.com
Spent seven years at the Los Angeles Daily News
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Boston Celtics All-Star forward Jayson Tatum told ESPN on Wednesday night that he hasn't made a decision about whether he will return from a torn Achilles tendon this season because he "wants to get it right the first time, so it's just a lot to think about."
Tatum, hurt in the playoffs last May, said he's been progressing well in his rehabilitation and is feeling stronger every week, but he's waiting to make a decision because of the severity of the injury.
Tatum went through a full workout in front of reporters in Detroit last week and has been increasing his workload of late, prompting speculation that he was closer to a late-season return for the Celtics.
Boston is currently tied with the New York Knicks for the second-best record in the Eastern Conference (29-18).
Earlier Wednesday, The Association reported that Tatum was re-evaluating his situation and considering sitting out the full season.