TITLE: Tatum joins first full scrimmage since Achilles tear but downplays quick comeback
SLUG: tatum-joins-first-scrimmage-since-achilles-tear
CONTENT:
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum went through his first 5-on-5 workout with live players on Tuesday, marking 39 weeks since he tore his right Achilles in last May’s Eastern Conference semifinals.
Tatum practiced with the Celtics’ G League affiliate in Maine and told reporters he “felt good,” while stressing that the session does not signal an immediate return to NBA action.
“It’s just the next step in the rehab process,” Tatum said. “It doesn’t mean I’m coming back or I’m not. We’re sticking to the plan.”
The All-NBA star has been sidelined since the injury against the New York Knicks, an ailment that commonly requires up to a year of recovery. Asked how close he is to rejoining Boston’s lineup, Tatum replied that he still has no timetable: “I feel a little bit better every day and try to focus on that.”
Despite his absence, the Celtics sit third in the Eastern Conference, propelled by All-Star guard Jaylen Brown. Tatum noted last week on “The Pivot” podcast that he worries about disrupting the team’s chemistry. Addressing those comments Tuesday, he said, “I know what I bring to the team, but I’m also aware these guys have been playing extremely well. It was just me being vulnerable for a moment.”
President of basketball operations Brad Stevens reiterated last week that Boston will not rush the 27-year-old back. “It’s best to wait until he’s 110% healthy and fully cleared,” Stevens said.
No target date has been set for Tatum’s return, and both player and team maintain they will proceed cautiously.
Source: ESPN
