Celtics Star Tatum Grateful for Playoff Return After Achilles Injury

After missing last year's playoffs, Tatum is ready to lead Boston's postseason push.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 9:21pm

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Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum is grateful to be back on the court for the playoffs this year, just 48 weeks after suffering a ruptured Achilles that put his postseason availability in doubt. Tatum missed the final two games of last year's playoff series against the New York Knicks due to the injury, but has worked his way back and will be cleared for a full workload in this year's first-round matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers.

Why it matters

Tatum's return to full health is a major boost for the Celtics as they look to make a deep playoff run. The 24-year-old All-Star is one of the league's rising young superstars, and his presence will be crucial as Boston tries to navigate a tough Eastern Conference playoff field.

The details

After being limited to just 27 minutes per game in his first three games back and 32 minutes over his next five, Tatum's minutes restriction has now been lifted. He played 39 minutes in each of Boston's final two regular-season games, a sign that he is ready for the increased workload and intensity of the playoffs.

  • Tatum ruptured his Achilles 48 weeks ago during last year's playoffs.
  • He missed Games 5 and 6 of the Celtics' first-round series against the Knicks due to the injury.
  • Tatum has played in 16 games since returning from the injury this season.

The players

Jayson Tatum

A 24-year-old All-Star forward for the Boston Celtics who is returning to the playoffs after missing the end of last year's postseason due to an Achilles injury.

Boston Celtics

An NBA franchise based in Boston, Massachusetts that is looking to make a deep playoff run this year with Tatum back at full strength.

Philadelphia 76ers

The Celtics' first-round playoff opponent, a fellow Eastern Conference contender that Tatum and the Celtics will have to get through to advance.

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What they’re saying

“I'm excited. My perspective has changed these last 48 weeks. I remember when I got injured there was a lot of uncertainty. The playoffs weren't a sure thing, and now that I get that opportunity, I couldn't be more happy.”

— Jayson Tatum, Celtics Forward

“Not that I ever took it for granted, but when something is taken away from you, it just means a little bit more.”

— Jayson Tatum, Celtics Forward

What’s next

Tatum and the Celtics will begin their first-round playoff series against the 76ers on April 22nd.

The takeaway

Tatum's return to full health after a devastating Achilles injury is a testament to his determination and the Celtics' medical staff. His presence will be crucial as Boston tries to make a deep playoff run and compete for an NBA championship.