Celtics' Tatum Expected to Return Friday After Achilles Injury

Star forward to suit up against Mavericks, 10 months after suffering torn Achilles

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Boston Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum is expected to return to the lineup on Friday against the Dallas Mavericks, just 10 months after suffering a torn Achilles injury in the playoffs last season. Tatum has been sidelined since the injury but the Celtics have continued to thrive, holding the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference.

Why it matters

Tatum's return is a major boost for the Celtics as they push for an NBA championship. The team has managed well in his absence, but getting their star player back could take them to another level. Tatum's recovery from the Achilles injury in less than a year is also an impressive feat, as the typical recovery timeline is 9-12 months.

The details

Tatum was officially listed as questionable on the Celtics' injury report, but ESPN reports he is expected to suit up against the Mavericks on Friday. Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens noted Tatum wouldn't be cleared to play until he was physically and mentally ready. In Tatum's absence, players like Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, Payton Pritchard, and Anfernee Simons have stepped up to keep the Celtics near the top of the Eastern Conference standings.

  • Tatum suffered the Achilles injury in the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks last season.
  • Tatum's return is expected to come 10 months after the initial injury.
  • The Celtics will face the Dallas Mavericks on Friday, March 6, 2026.

The players

Jayson Tatum

A 24-year-old star forward for the Boston Celtics who is expected to make his return to the lineup on Friday after missing nearly 10 months due to an Achilles injury.

Jaylen Brown

The Celtics' leading scorer in Tatum's absence, averaging 28.9 points, 7.2 rebounds and 5.0 assists per game.

Brad Stevens

The president of basketball operations for the Boston Celtics, who has overseen the team's success in Tatum's absence and will manage his return.

Cooper Flagg

A player for the Dallas Mavericks, who will face the Celtics in Tatum's expected return game.

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What they’re saying

“I'm 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.”

— Jayson Tatum (NBA.com)

“Tatum wouldn't be cleared until he was definitely ready to play, both physically and mentally.”

— Brad Stevens, President of Basketball Operations, Boston Celtics (ESPN)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Tatum's return from a serious Achilles injury in less than a year is a remarkable feat, and his reintegration into the Celtics' lineup could be a game-changer as the team pushes for an NBA championship. The Celtics have thrived in his absence, but getting their superstar back healthy and ready to contribute will undoubtedly boost their title aspirations.