Celtics Star Tatum Uncertain About Return This Season

Jayson Tatum says he's doing everything to come back, but doesn't know if he can this year

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum, who has been out all season with an Achilles injury, says he is making progress in his recovery but is uncertain if he will be able to return and play for the Celtics this year. The team has been surprisingly successful without Tatum, sitting in second place in the Eastern Conference, but his potential return could give them a big boost for the playoffs.

Why it matters

Tatum is one of the NBA's rising young stars, and his return could be a game-changer for the Celtics' playoff hopes. The team has exceeded expectations without him, but adding an All-Star caliber player like Tatum back into the mix would significantly improve their chances of making a deep postseason run.

The details

Tatum suffered the Achilles injury during last year's playoffs and has been rehabbing ever since. He has returned to practice, but is still unsure if he will be able to play again this season. The Celtics have been led by Jaylen Brown, Payton Pritchard and Derrick White in Tatum's absence, and currently sit in second place in the Eastern Conference with a 35-19 record.

  • Tatum suffered the Achilles injury during last year's playoff loss to the New York Knicks.
  • Tatum has been out all season so far, missing the Celtics' first 54 games.

The players

Jayson Tatum

An All-Star forward for the Boston Celtics who has been sidelined all season with an Achilles injury.

Jaylen Brown

A star guard who has led the Celtics in Tatum's absence, helping the team to a 35-19 record so far this season.

Joe Mazzulla

The head coach of the Boston Celtics, who has guided the team to success this season despite Tatum's injury.

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What they’re saying

“I'm trying to come back and I am doing everything I can to come back. I just don't know if I can.”

— Jayson Tatum (NBA on Prime)

What’s next

The Celtics will continue to monitor Tatum's progress and recovery, with the hope that he may be able to return at some point during the season to bolster their playoff push.

The takeaway

Tatum's potential return could be a game-changer for the Celtics, who have exceeded expectations without their star player. However, his uncertain status highlights the challenges of recovering from a serious Achilles injury, and the team will have to continue to rely on its depth and supporting cast as they aim for a deep playoff run.