Achilles Injury Bonds Dejounte Murray, Jayson Tatum, and Tyrese Haliburton

The trio of NBA stars have leaned on each other during their recoveries from Achilles tendon ruptures.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 2:25am

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Dejounte Murray of the New Orleans Pelicans, Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics, and Tyrese Haliburton of the Indiana Pacers have all suffered Achilles injuries in recent years. Despite the challenges, the three players have formed a bond as they support each other through the rehabilitation process. Murray and Tatum have already returned to high levels of play, providing hope for Haliburton's recovery.

Why it matters

Achilles injuries were once considered career-threatening, but the successful returns of Murray and Tatum show that players can come back stronger than ever with the right treatment and support. The camaraderie between the three players also highlights the importance of community and shared experiences during difficult recoveries.

The details

Murray recently had a 35-point game for the Pelicans, showcasing his return to form after missing over a year due to his Achilles injury. Tatum has also looked spry for the Celtics, putting up 20-14-7 in a recent outing. While their shooting may not be all the way back, the two players have leaned on each other and Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton, who is still rehabbing his own Achilles injury, for support during the recovery process.

  • Dejounte Murray suffered his Achilles injury over a year ago.
  • Jayson Tatum returned to play in less than a year after rupturing his Achilles.

The players

Dejounte Murray

A guard for the New Orleans Pelicans who recently had a 35-point game after missing over a year due to an Achilles injury.

Jayson Tatum

A star forward for the Boston Celtics who has returned to high-level play after recovering from an Achilles rupture.

Tyrese Haliburton

An Indiana Pacers guard who is still in the process of rehabbing his own Achilles injury.

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What they’re saying

“The Achilles guys supporting each other is so cool to see man”

— jb (Twitter)

What’s next

The Indiana Pacers are hoping Tyrese Haliburton can make a similar successful return to play as Dejounte Murray and Jayson Tatum have, and rejoin the team's quest for an NBA title.

The takeaway

The recoveries of Dejounte Murray, Jayson Tatum, and Tyrese Haliburton from Achilles injuries show that with the right treatment and support, players can bounce back stronger than ever from what was once considered a career-threatening injury. Their bond and camaraderie during the rehabilitation process is an inspiring example of the power of community in overcoming adversity.