Jayson Tatum is expected to play for the Boston Celtics in their game against the Washington Wizards. This follows Tatum’s absence from Thursday’s game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, which was described as “injury management”. The Celtics will host the Wizards at TD Garden Saturday with tipoff slated for 6 p.m. Eastern Time.
Tatum’s Return and Minutes Restriction
Tatum, who made his season debut last Friday after recovering from a right ruptured Achilles, had been managing his return. He had started and played in three straight games before Thursday. The 28-year-old is on a minutes restriction as he returns to competition, playing 27 minutes in each of his three starts.
Head coach Joe Mazzulla said the team’s management plan for Tatum is focused on the player’s best interest. Days off are part of this predetermined plan. “Just trust in our sport science team and trainers,” Mazzulla said. “The goal was always for him to come back and also to maintain his health as he continues to stay healthy and continue to get better. Just the trust and communication from our team.”
Tatum last played on Tuesday against the San Antonio Spurs, scoring a season-high 24 points. He also recorded two steals in Boston’s nine-point loss.
It’s evident that Tatum isn’t 100 percent confident in pushing off of his right leg. This is expected to improve over time with rest.
Other Celtics Injury Updates
Baylor Scheierman (right ankle sprain) and Derrick White (right knee contusion) are probable to play against the Wizards. Scheierman was injured against the Thunder while filling in for Tatum.
White did not play on Thursday. He suffered the ailment Tuesday versus the Spurs and received attention from the training staff on the court in the second half.
Nikola Vucevic (right ring finger fracture) remains out. He broke his finger during Tatum’s return last week and underwent surgery the following day.
Injury Report Summary
- Baylor Scheierman – Right Ankle Sprain – PROBABLE
- Nikola Vucevic – Right Ring Finger Fracture – OUT
- Derrick White – Right Knee Contusion – PROBABLE
The Celtics management plan for Tatum has the player’s best interest in mind as he returns from injury.