As the regular season reaches its final stretch, the Boston Celtics are one team the basketball world is watching with a close eye. After months of speculation, it’s almost time for the team to make a final decision on Jayson Tatum.
Last postseason, Tatum suffered an Achilles injury during a second-round matchup with the New York Knicks. While this is typically a 12-month recovery timeline, the superstar forward has been adamant about defying the odds. From the beginning, he’s refused to rule out the idea of not suiting up in 2026.
Despite not having Tatum’s services, the Celtics have managed to remain a threat in the Eastern Conference. With a little less than 25 games to go, Boston is holding on to second place in the standings with a 38-20 record.
Boston’s success has made the Tatum discourse even more interesting, as some feel his return could help them make a run at the title this year. However, one longtime analyst is imploring the team to think with the long-term in mind.
During the February 26th episode of First Take on ESPN, Stephen A. Smith gave his thoughts on the Celtics star playing this season. Given all that Tatum and Jaylen Brown have accomplished together, he believes the team should proceed with caution and preserve its championship window.
“You both have won a championship together already,” Stephen A. said. “And you got plenty of time to figure out how to do it again…You got ample amount of time.”
Celtics Star Jayson Tatum Partakes in 5-on-5 Scrimmage
Tatum’s positive mindset from the beginning has yielded positive dividends for him, as he is far ahead of schedule compared to previous players who have suffered such an injury in the past. Earlier this week, shocking developments emerged, adding fuel to the fire of his possible return.
While on NBA Today on February 25th, insider Shams Charania detailed the latest regarding the six-time All-Star. He noted that just nine months after undergoing surgery, Tatum was a full participant in 5-on-5 scrimmages at Celtics practice.
Already playing 5-on-5 behind the scenes, Tatum suiting up for the Celtics this season is one step closer to becoming a reality.
Former Player Defends Jayson Tatum as he Strives Towards Return to Celtics
Seeing that no player has come back from an Achilles injury this fast, many people in and around the league feel similar to Stephen A. when it comes to Tatum. That said, there are some who don’t feel it’s that outlandish for him to rejoin his team and possibly help them on a deep postseason run.
During an appearance on SiriusXM NBA Radio, former Sixth Man of the Year Eddie Johnson weighed in on what the star forward should do. He thinks that if Tatum can confidently get through all his exams with doctors, then he should get back on the floor.
“Jayson Tatum is the one that knows if he can do it,” Johnson said. “If he can check off all those things and say no I’m good, he should come back and play.”
Only time will tell if Tatum shocks the basketball world or weighs on the side of caution in hopes of not derailing his prime years.
Stephen A. Smith Implores Celtics Not to Rush Jayson Tatum Return