As he continues his grind for full Achilles recovery, Tatum is reportedly wary of the possible implications of his return to the Celtics this season.
Appearing on NBA on Prime, league insider Chris Haynes dropped new updates about the potential return of Jayson Tatum this 2025-26 season.
Jayson Tatum
Jayson Tatum
Team: Boston Celtics
Position: SF
Age: 27
Height: 203 cm
Weight: 95 kg
Birth place: St. Louis, United States of America
Beyond the fact that he has to clear multiple requirements before being eligible to make a basketball comeback, Tatum is also wary of the potential impact he could bring to the Boston Celtics in the wake of the team's unforeseen stellar run.
"Sources told me that there are multiple hurdles that Jayson Tatum has to clear before he hits the court. I was told that includes a physical examination, a mental assessment, and five-on-five full-court contact basketball. Even if he passes all of that, he still has to be cleared by the team. After that, it’s up to Tatum to decide if he’s going to play," Haynes shared.
"One thing I can tell you about Tatum is that he is very sensitive to where the Boston Celtics stand in the Eastern Conference. He wants to come back as Jayson Tatum, the star player, and he does not want to be a hindrance. He understands it might be an uphill battle starting the season so late, but he doesn’t want to be a roadblock for the Celtics. With that said, the team is not pressuring him, and Tatum doesn’t feel any pressure from the Celtics. He will make the decision once he is cleared, and he is aware there are only 28 games left in the regular season, which will be a tough task."
Ruptured Achilles injuries tend to require a full season of inactivity, yet Tatum has carved an unprecedented mark that could make him return at some point this year.
As such, Haynes indicated that Tatum remains doubtful and conflicted about playing this season or not for the C's.
"I reached out to Tatum, and he told me, 'Listen, I'm trying to come back. I'm trying to see if I could come back. I don't know if that's the case, but I'm working hard and working vigilant to put myself in position that if I can come back, I will be physically and mentally ready.' ”
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