Jayson Tatum thrives in return as Celtics beat Mavs

Boston star scores 15 points, grabs 12 rebounds in season debut after Achilles injury

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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Jayson Tatum made his season debut for the Boston Celtics, scoring 15 points, grabbing 12 rebounds and dishing out 7 assists in a 120-100 win over the Dallas Mavericks. Jaylen Brown added 24 points for the Celtics, while Klay Thompson scored 19 for the Mavericks. The news wasn't all good for Boston, as Nikola Vucevic left the game in the first quarter with a fractured right ring finger.

Why it matters

Tatum's return is a major boost for the Celtics as they look to make a deep playoff run. The 24-year-old All-Star missed the start of the season after tearing his Achilles tendon in last year's playoffs. His ability to contribute in his first game back is an encouraging sign for Boston's title hopes.

The details

Tatum played 27 minutes in his season debut, looking sharp despite the long layoff. He shot efficiently, making 6 of his 12 field goal attempts. Celtics teammates Jaylen Brown and Derrick White also had strong performances, scoring 24 and 20 points respectively. However, the loss of Vucevic to a hand injury is a concern for Boston.

  • Tatum tore his right Achilles tendon in Game 4 of last year's Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks.
  • Tatum made his season debut on Friday, March 7, 2026.

The players

Jayson Tatum

A 24-year-old All-Star forward for the Boston Celtics who was making his season debut after missing time due to an Achilles injury.

Nikola Vucevic

The Celtics' starting center who left Friday's game in the first quarter with a fractured right ring finger.

Klay Thompson

A veteran guard for the Dallas Mavericks who scored 19 points in the loss.

Jaylen Brown

A star guard for the Boston Celtics who scored 24 points in the win.

Derrick White

A key contributor off the bench for the Boston Celtics, scoring 20 points.

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The takeaway

Tatum's successful return from a serious Achilles injury is an encouraging sign for the Celtics, who are hoping to contend for an NBA championship this season. His ability to contribute right away should provide a lift to the team as they push for a top seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs.