Celtics' Jaylen Brown Shares Intriguing Jayson Tatum Update Amid Possible 2025-26 Return

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Boston Celtics All-Star Jaylen Brown gave an encouraging injury update on teammate Jayson Tatum, who is recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon. Brown said Tatum is "looking pretty damn good" as he approaches the final stages of his rehab, though Tatum has not yet made a final decision on whether he will return this season. The Celtics' recent trade for Nikola Vucevic signals the organization's belief that Tatum will return before the end of the regular season to bolster their playoff push.

Why it matters

Tatum's potential return would be a major boost for the Celtics, who currently have the second-best record in the Eastern Conference. His presence alongside fellow All-Star Jaylen Brown would give Boston one of the most formidable duos in the NBA and improve their chances of making a deep playoff run.

The details

Tatum has been practicing with the Celtics' G League affiliate, the Maine Celtics, as he continues his recovery from the Achilles injury he suffered in last year's playoffs. While his return this season is not guaranteed, the Celtics' recent trade for veteran center Nikola Vucevic suggests the organization is confident Tatum will be back on the court before the end of the regular season.

• Tatum suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon in the Celtics' second-round playoff series against the New York Knicks last season.
• Tatum has been practicing with the Maine Celtics as he approaches the final stages of his rehab.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Tatum will likely make a final decision on his return in the upcoming weeks, as the Celtics continue their push for a playoff spot.