While the Boston Celtics have been playing well without Jayson Tatum, having him back in the lineup would provide a significant boost as they look to compete in the Eastern Conference.
The NBA champion and multi-time All-Star suffered a brutal tear of his Achilles tendon during the playoffs, ending his team’s hopes of another run to the NBA Finals. Since then, he’s undergone the necessary surgery and gone through the grueling rehabilitation process to get back to playing in NBA games.
Tatum gave that process his full commitment so he could potentially return sooner, rather than sitting out the entire season. On Thursday, a massive development emerged regarding his playing status and potential return to the basketball court.
ESPN’s NBA insider Shams Charania reported the breaking news that Tatum will return this season and possibly debut in his team’s upcoming game against the Dallas Mavericks.
That game is scheduled for Friday, Mar. 5, in Boston, giving a surprising turn of events in his recovery and return, as the surgery for his ruptured Achilles tendon was less than 10 months ago.
He suffered his brutal injury last May in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals versus the New York Knicks. Once Tatum dropped to the court in agony, it officially brought a disheartening end to his team’s chances of returning to the NBA Finals.
Following surgery, Tatum has appeared in a series of videos for a docuseries on his YouTube channel, featuring the various emotions involved in his recovery and his focus on getting back to where he previously was as a competitor.
The Celtics currently sit at 41-21 and second overall, trailing only the Detroit Pistons in the Eastern Conference. Tatum’s teammate, Jaylen Brown, has been carrying the team’s weight and doing so admirably, as he’s led the team to its respectable record and position in the Eastern Conference amid Tatum’s absence.
There had been some chatter that it might be in the team’s best interest to keep Tatum off the court to ensure he’s fully healthy. However, he’s been participating in full team activities recently, and it appears the Celtics may be good with where he is health-wise.
With 20 games left in the regular season, Tatum could have some early minutes restrictions when he returns. He should provide a boost with his talent and skills, but time will tell if he has recovered to his former level of basketball abilities.
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