Celtics Star Jayson Tatum Set to Return on March 6

Bill Simmons reveals Tatum's anticipated comeback date against the Dallas Mavericks

Mar. 2, 2026 at 1:15pm

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The Boston Celtics are set to welcome back star forward Jayson Tatum, who has been sidelined since last spring with a torn Achilles tendon. According to Bill Simmons, host of 'The Bill Simmons Podcast', Tatum is expected to make his return on March 6 against the Dallas Mavericks, which could significantly boost the Celtics' playoff hopes in the Eastern Conference.

Why it matters

Tatum's return is a major boost for the Celtics, who are currently second in the East but trail the Detroit Pistons by 5.5 games. The dynamic duo of Tatum and Jaylen Brown could give Boston the star power and experience needed to challenge for another NBA championship if Tatum can return to full strength.

The details

Tatum has been averaging over 26.8 points per game while shooting around 46% from the field over the past three seasons. His absence has been a significant blow to the Celtics, who saw their playoff hopes dashed last spring when Tatum suffered the Achilles injury against the New York Knicks.

  • Tatum suffered the torn Achilles tendon injury last spring against the New York Knicks.
  • The Celtics are currently sitting in the second seed in the Eastern Conference.
  • Bill Simmons stated that Tatum is expected to return on March 6 against the Dallas Mavericks.

The players

Jayson Tatum

A star forward for the Boston Celtics who has been sidelined since last spring with a torn Achilles tendon.

Bill Simmons

The host of 'The Bill Simmons Podcast' who revealed Tatum's anticipated return date.

Jaylen Brown

Tatum's teammate and fellow star for the Boston Celtics, who has been playing well in Tatum's absence.

Joe Mazzulla

The head coach of the Boston Celtics.

Cooper Flagg

A player for the Dallas Mavericks, who will face the Celtics on March 6 when Tatum is expected to return.

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What they’re saying

“All signs are pointing to Friday, Dallas.”

— Bill Simmons, Host of 'The Bill Simmons Podcast'

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 could be a game-changer for the Celtics, who are looking to challenge the Pistons for the top seed in the Eastern Conference. The dynamic duo of Tatum and Brown could give Boston the star power and experience needed to make a deep playoff run and potentially win another NBA championship.