Celtics' Tatum Uncertain About Return This Season

All-Star forward says 'nothing is set in stone' for his NBA comeback from Achilles injury

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum said he has not decided whether he will play at all this season as he continues his rehabilitation from a torn Achilles tendon. Tatum revealed he recently went through a 5-on-5 workout with Celtics teammates, but he still has not returned to fully practicing at the NBA level. Head coach Joe Mazzulla said Tatum's eventual return to full practices will depend on him hitting certain milestones in his recovery.

Why it matters

The Celtics have played well without Tatum, sitting at 36-19 and in contention in the Eastern Conference. His potential return would be a major boost, but the team is taking a cautious approach to ensure Tatum is fully healthy before rejoining the lineup.

The details

Tatum tore his Achilles tendon during the playoffs last May. He said he recently participated in a 5-on-5 workout with Celtics teammates, but he still has not returned to full NBA practices. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla said Tatum's return will depend on him hitting certain milestones in his rehabilitation program.

  • Tatum tore his Achilles tendon in May 2025 during the NBA playoffs.
  • Tatum recently went through a 5-on-5 workout with Celtics teammates.

The players

Jayson Tatum

A six-time NBA All-Star and one of the league's top young players, currently rehabbing from a torn Achilles tendon.

Joe Mazzulla

The head coach of the Boston Celtics, overseeing Tatum's recovery and eventual return to the lineup.

Luka Garza

A Celtics teammate who participated in the 5-on-5 workout with Tatum.

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What they’re saying

“I know what 100 percent feels like. And if and when that time comes, I'll be ready.”

— Jayson Tatum, Celtics Forward (nytimes.com)

“He's just continuing to get better on the court. He's going through his progression of his workouts, working on his reads, and then continuing to hit his check marks in the weight room and in the treatment room as well. So the main goal is just making sure he gets 100 percent healthy and continuing to get better and better.”

— Joe Mazzulla, Celtics Head Coach (nytimes.com)

What’s next

The Celtics will continue to monitor Tatum's progress and determine when he is ready to fully rejoin the team's practices and game action. The team has not set a timeline for his return.

The takeaway

Tatum's recovery from a serious Achilles injury is a delicate process, and the Celtics are taking a cautious approach to ensure he is fully healthy before returning to the court. The team's success without him has given them the luxury of allowing Tatum to take his time and not rush back prematurely.