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BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - SEPTEMBER 24: Derrick White #9 of the Boston Celtics speaks to the media during Boston Celtics Media Day at The Auerbach Center on September 24, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Malhotra/Getty Images)
On Friday evening, all eyes in the NBA will be on the Boston Celtics.
After missing more than half of the 2025-26 season, All-Star forward Jayson Tatum is expected to make his return to the lineup.
ESPN’s Shams Charania wrote: “There’s an expectation that Jayson Tatum will make his 2025-26 season debut for the Boston Celtics on Friday night at TD Garden versus Dallas, sources tell ESPN. Tatum has been described as ready to go and will inform the Celtics of a final decision over the next day.”
Derrick White Reacts To Major Jayson Tatum News
GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 08: Jayson Tatum #0 and Derrick White #9 of the Boston Celtics point into the stands before the opening tipoff against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on April 08, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
After the news of Tatum’s likely return was announced, Derrick White was asked for his thoughts on Tatum returning to the lineup (via Celtics on CLNS).
White: “Obviously, we play a little bit differently, but J.T. has been around all year… He’s been those film sessions and like in the locker room with us. I mean obviously he’s been away from basketball for a while so there’s gonna be a little grace period for him. At the end of the day, we all just want to win. That’s really what we’re focusing on. We’re gonna do whatever it takes to win games.”
GettyBOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – JUNE 17: Jayson Tatum #0 reacts while Derrick White #9 of the Boston Celtics looks on prior to Game Five of the 2024 NBA Finals against the Dallas Mavericks at TD Garden on June 17, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Tatum is coming off a season where he had averages of 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, 6.0 assists and 1.1 steals per contest while shooting 45.2% from the field in 72 games.