On Friday evening, all eyes in the NBA world 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 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 him 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 in 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 all 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.
He is in his ninth season after being selected third in 2017.
Joel Moran wrote: “The Celtics are lucky to have a franchise player like Jayson Tatum. Coming back less than 10 months before he had surgery showcases his discipline, passion, and drive for the game. He’s a proven winner who in the midst of his prime wasn’t going to let an injury derail him.”
Derrick White’s Tenure In Boston
GettyHOUSTON, TEXAS – FEBRUARY 04: Derrick White #9 of the Boston Celtics reacts after making a three point shot in the second half against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on February 04, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
White has been an incredible addition to the Celtics over part of five seasons.
The 2024 NBA Champion is currently averaging 17.3 points, 4.4 rebounds, 5.7 assists and 1.2 steals per contest while shooting 39.2% from the field and 33.0% from three-point range in 60 games.
He has also spent time playing for the San Antonio Spurs.
The Celtics are the second seed in the Eastern Conference with a 41-21 record in 62 games.
They have won seven out of their last ten games.
Following the Mavs, the Celtics will visit the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday in Ohio.
Derrick White Reacts To Jayson Tatum News Before Mavs-Celtics Game