Nearly three months after suffering a season-ending Achilles tear during the Eastern Conference Semifinal Game 4, Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum has started walking again, marking a significant milestone in his Achilles injury recovery. The 26-year-old forward is no longer using a boot on his surgically repaired right ankle, a positive step in his rehabilitation.
Progress Update from Celtics Leadership and ESPN
Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens has refrained from setting a timeline for Tatum’s return to the court, emphasizing caution. However, ESPN reporter Ramona Shelburne recently reported encouraging updates, noting that Tatum is progressing faster than expected. During NBA Today, Shelburne explained,
“There is a good update on Jayson Tatum – he’s walking again. He’s out of the boot and he’s walking again. He said he’s been doing six days a week in rehab, and I think he’s ahead of schedule coming back from that Achilles.”
Rehabilitation Efforts and Team Context
Tatum has been rehabilitating at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, where he has been following a rigorous daily workout routine. Meanwhile, Celtics starter Jaylen Brown, who also underwent surgery this offseason for an arthroscopic procedure on his right knee, has returned to Boston’s practice facility and is preparing to carry a larger load during Tatum’s absence next season. Shelburne noted,
“I think Jaylen Brown relishes moments like this. He tried to play through that injury all throughout the playoffs, and I think he’ll relish being the ‘1A’ here.”
Tatum’s Stellar Performance Before Injury
Before his injury against the New York Knicks, Tatum was performing at an elite level, scoring 42 points along with eight rebounds, four assists, four steals, and two blocks on 16-of-28 shooting during that game. His consistent excellence throughout the season was reflected in his averages of 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and six assists per game. A six-time NBA All-Star and four-time All-NBA First Team recipient, Tatum signed a record-breaking $314 million contract extension last summer, solidifying his role as Boston’s franchise player.
Boston Celtics’ Front Office Decisions Amidst Injury Challenges
Despite Tatum’s injury, Brad Stevens dismissed suggestions that it accelerated the Celtics’ recent trades or influenced salary cap decisions for the upcoming 2025-26 season. Stevens stated,
“The reality is that we knew going into this year, regardless of how it ended, that we were going to have some really hard decisions to make because of the penalties.”
In recent moves, the Celtics have traded Kristaps Porziņģis and Jrue Holiday and appear unlikely to re-sign free agent center Al Horford as they adjust their roster for the future.
Looking Ahead: What Tatum’s Recovery Means for Boston
Jayson Tatum’s accelerated progress in Achilles injury recovery offers hope for the Celtics as they plan for next season. With Tatum’s return timeline still uncertain, the team will rely heavily on Jaylen Brown and other key players to maintain competitiveness. Tatum’s eventual comeback is expected to restore Boston’s offensive firepower and maintain their standing as contenders in the Eastern Conference.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Jayson Tatum religious?
A. Jayson says his success comes from hard work, perseverance, and his strong faith in God, inspired by his mother’s teachings. His guiding principle is the Bible verse Philippians 4:13, which states, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Q. Is Jayson Tatum a gen Z?
A. Tatum also has a cultural impact. Being part of Gen Z, he relates to younger fans and players, reflecting the current NBA style and values.