Celtics Star Tatum Marks Milestone in Achilles Recovery

Tatum unsure about return this season as Celtics thrive without him

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum took to social media to mark a 40-week milestone in his recovery from a torn Achilles injury suffered during the playoffs last season. While Tatum has returned to practice, he has not yet committed to playing this season as the Celtics have continued to thrive without him, sitting second in the Eastern Conference with a 35-19 record.

Why it matters

Tatum's return could significantly impact the Celtics' playoff hopes, as he is viewed as an MVP-caliber player when healthy. However, the team has found success without him, raising questions about how his reintegration could affect the team's chemistry and dynamics.

The details

Tatum suffered the Achilles injury during the Celtics' second-round playoff series against the New York Knicks last season. He had been expected to return for a playoff push this season, but has yet to commit to a timeline as he continues his recovery process. Tatum recently returned to the practice court, taking another step in his recovery, but has acknowledged the uncertainty around his return, citing the Celtics' strong play in his absence.

  • Tatum suffered the Achilles injury during the Celtics' second-round playoff series against the New York Knicks last season.
  • Tatum recently returned to the practice court, taking another step in his recovery.

The players

Jayson Tatum

A star forward for the Boston Celtics who is recovering from a torn Achilles injury.

Boston Celtics

An NBA team that currently sits second in the Eastern Conference with a 35-19 record, despite the absence of Tatum.

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What they’re saying

“'40 weeks,' Tatum wrote with a praying hands emoji. 'I've really grown to appreciate this journey I've been on and allow time for me to pat myself on the back for showing up every day!'”

— Jayson Tatum (Instagram)

“'Over 39 weeks, you have a lot of time on your hands [to think],' Tatum told reporters. 'You think about a lot of things. Just hyper aware of what's going on. I think it would just stem from that. Obviously, I know what I bring to the table and bring to the team. But I'm also aware that these guys have been playing extremely well. And, not to say that I would come and mess it up or anything like that. It was just kind of being vulnerable, I guess, for a moment.'”

— Jayson Tatum (Newsweek)

What’s next

Tatum has not yet made a final decision on his status for the remainder of the season, as the Celtics continue to thrive without him. The team and Tatum will likely wait until he is fully recovered before determining if he will return this season.

The takeaway

Tatum's recovery process has been a delicate balance, as the Celtics have found success without him, raising questions about how his return could impact the team's chemistry and dynamics. However, Tatum's talent and impact on the team are undeniable, and his eventual return could be a significant boost for the Celtics' playoff aspirations.