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Celtics Star Jayson Tatum Remains Out Against Hornets
Tatum continues recovery from Achilles injury, will not make season debut yet
Mar. 3, 2026 at 10:35pm
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Boston Celtics star forward Jayson Tatum will not make his season debut against the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday, despite growing speculation that he could return from his Achilles injury sooner than expected. Tatum has been participating in 5-on-5 scrimmages and practicing with the team's G League affiliate, but the Celtics will hold him out of the matchup with the Hornets as he continues his recovery.
Why it matters
Tatum's return would be a major boost for the Celtics, who are currently second in the Eastern Conference standings at 41-20. However, the team is being cautious with his recovery to ensure he is fully healthy before returning to game action.
The details
Tatum suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon injury during the 2025 NBA Playoffs and underwent surgery the following day. He was initially expected to miss the entire 2025-26 season, but recent reports of him participating in practices and scrimmages have sparked speculation about an earlier-than-expected return. Despite this, the Celtics will hold Tatum out of Wednesday's game against the Hornets as he continues his rehabilitation.
- Tatum suffered the Achilles injury during Game 4 of the Celtics' second-round playoff series against the New York Knicks in 2025.
- Tatum underwent surgery the day after the injury.
- Tatum was initially expected to miss the entire 2025-26 NBA season.
The players
Jayson Tatum
A 28-year-old forward for the Boston Celtics who has been sidelined with an Achilles injury since the 2025 NBA Playoffs.
Boston Celtics
An NBA team currently second in the Eastern Conference standings with a 41-20 record.
Charlotte Hornets
The Celtics' opponent on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
What they’re saying
“Jayson Tatum remains OUT ahead of tomorrow night's Hornets-Celtics clash. Amid speculation that he could return on Wednesday, that will not be the case for the All-Star forward.”
— Brett Siegel, ClutchPoints Reporter
What’s next
The Celtics will continue to monitor Tatum's progress and provide updates on his potential return timeline. The team is focused on ensuring he is fully healthy before bringing him back to game action.
The takeaway
While Celtics fans are eager to see Tatum return to the court, the team is taking a cautious approach to his recovery from the Achilles injury. By prioritizing his long-term health, the Celtics are positioning themselves for a strong playoff push once Tatum is ready to rejoin the lineup.
