Jayson Tatum is expected to miss most of the 2025-26 season with a torn Achilles injury suffered against the New York Knicks in last year’s playoffs.
Since then, Celtics fans have had to come to terms with the team taking a step back this season after winning a championship in 2024.
This ‘reset’ has included trading away key contributors from that title run, such as Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, while also letting Luke Kornet and Al Horford leave in free agency.
Although Boston might not be favorites out of the Eastern Conference this season, the Celtics still plan to compete. Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and the newly acquired Anfernee Simons will lead the way, targeting a 4-6 seed.
If Boston is able to manage this, there’s a chance they will have Jayson Tatum back for the playoffs.
Tatum’s teammate, Jordan Walsh said this about his recovery: “We’ve seen him so often. I’ve seen him from when he messed up his Achilles to now, and it’s a big difference. He’s moving around way better. So, he’s progressing well. I’m definitely happy to see him getting back healthy.”
“To see him in the gym definitely sets a precedent for everybody else,” Walsh added. “If a guy is hurt and trying to get back, then you can do the same thing. Like, you’re perfectly healthy, you should be doing the same thing.”
The earliest Tatum could return to action is towards the end of February. That said, the Celtics will be very precautious with their star and may potentially hold him out until the playoffs — or even until the 2026-27 season.
