Boston Celtics fans could see Jayson Tatum back on the court soon. After a torn Achilles last May, Tatum is reportedly expected to return to action Friday against the Mavs. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported the news.
The team listed Tatum as questionable on its injury report. Charania reports that Tatum is “ready to go” and will make a final decision on when to play soon.
Tatum’s Recovery and Rehab
Tatum faced a lengthy recovery after he went down with a torn Achilles last May. There was some doubt about whether he would be able to play this season. Tatum said he wasn’t ruling himself out back in September.
The move comes after an up-and-down rehab. At times, Tatum showed off incredible progress. In January, a report emerged suggesting the 27-year-old star could shut it down and prepare for next season.
Shortly after that report, Tatum’s return started to look more realistic. In February, it was reported that Tatum was taking part in controlled scrimmages. He was assigned to the team’s G League affiliate to start taking part in practices. Eventually, Tatum found himself listed on the Celtics’ injury report, a sign he was getting close to a return.
Thursday’s news put an end to Tatum’s rehab.
Celtics’ Performance Without Tatum
Despite being without Tatum — and trading away Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday — the Celtics have performed much better than expected. The team sits near the top of the Eastern Conference. Forward Jaylen Brown is in the midst of an MVP-caliber season.
What Tatum Brings to the Team
It’s impossible to know whether Tatum will fully return to form upon his return. The forward should make an impact, even if he’s not at full strength. Tatum has made the All-Star team in each of the past six seasons in which he was healthy. He’s been in contention for that honour multiple times over that period.
- Last season, Tatum averaged 26.8 points per game.
- He also averaged 8.7 rebounds.
- Tatum also averaged 6.0 assists per game.
- Those numbers earned him his fourth straight appearance on the first team All-NBA team.
With the Celtics rapidly approaching the playoffs, Tatum should have enough time to work himself into form before the end of the regular season. If the team can get him back to full strength in time for the playoffs, the Celtics could be bound for a miraculous championship run during a year most wrote the team off.