Boston Celtics' Jayson Tatum suffered a torn Achilles tendon during the playoffs, joining a list of NBA stars who've faced this severe injury. Recovery times vary, with past players returning between 7 to 18 months, impacting team dynamics and performance.
The diagnosis of a torn Achilles tendon for All-Star forward Jayson Tatum is a devastating blow to the defending champion Boston Celtics and the second injury of its kind during the NBA playoffs.
Jayson Tatum
Jayson Tatum
Jayson Tatum
MIN: 36.82
PTS: 26.96 (53.51%)
REB: 8.94
As: 5.93
ST: 1.16
BL: 0.55
TO: 2.94
GM: 80
Seven-time all-NBA guard Damian Lillard of the Milwaukee Bucks tore his left Achilles tendon during a loss to the Indiana Pacers on April 28.
The 27-year-old Tatum tore his right Achilles tendon on Monday night against the New York Knicks when he lunged toward a loose ball and his leg gave out. He buried his face in a towel in obvious pain while grabbing at his leg above the ankle after the non-contact injury.
Tatum underwent surgery and his season is over.
NBA Stars and Achilles injuries: Recovery timelines
Achilles tendon ruptures are among the most severe injuries for basketball players, often requiring extensive rehabilitation.
Historically, recovery times and outcomes have varied. Other notable athletes who have come back from a torn Achilles tendon:
Kevin Durant
Suffered a torn Achilles in June 2019 at age 30. He returned to play in December 2020 after approximately 18 months of recovery. Durant hasn’t played more than 55 games in any season since his return but he’s averaged 28.8 points, 7.1 rebounds and 5.7 assists in three seasons since the injury.
Klay Thompson
Tore his Achilles in November 2020 at age 30, following an ACL injury. He returned to the court in January 2022, marking a 14-month recovery period, helping lift the Warriors past the Celtics for his fourth NBA title.
Kobe Bryant
At age 34, Bryant tore his Achilles in April 2013. He returned to play in December 2013, about eight months later, but faced subsequent injuries that limited his play - most notably a lateral tibial plateau fracture after just six games.
Dominique Wilkins
Tore his Achilles in January 1992 at age 32 and made a notable comeback in November 1992, averaging 29.9 points per game in his return season. He played seven more years, including two stints overseas.
Wesley Matthews
Suffered the injury in March 2015 at age 28 and returned to play in October 2015, a seven-month recovery.
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