BOSTON — Five months after rupturing his right Achilles tendon, Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum insists he will not accelerate his comeback.
Speaking Monday, Sept. 29, 2025, at the club’s media day, the four-time All-Star said the organization has made it clear that full recovery matters more than any timeline.
“No pressure to return back any sooner than when I’m 100 percent healthy,” Tatum told reporters. “Brad Stevens, Joe Mazzulla, the team, the organization — everybody has been on the same page.”
Rehab Milestones
Tatum, 27, is 140 days into post-surgery rehabilitation, working out six days a week and performing light on-court drills. Coach Joe Mazzulla said he joined the forward for several sessions, including Tatum’s first steps, first jog and initial jump shots.
The forward also relies on a group chat with fellow Achilles patients Tyrese Haliburton, Damian Lillard and Dejounte Murray to share progress updates. “I’m in a really good spot,” Tatum said. “Getting back on the court and dribbling again was huge.”
Roster Reset
Boston’s roster looks markedly different from the group that tried to defend its 2024 NBA title. The front office traded Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday during the summer to slide below the league’s second luxury-tax apron, lowering external expectations.
With Tatum sidelined, the Celtics will lean heavily on fellow $300 million swingman Jaylen Brown. “I’m going to approach it the same way I always have,” Brown said, adding that the situation opens chances for Derrick White, Payton Pritchard and other teammates to elevate their roles.
Front-Office View
President of basketball operations Brad Stevens framed the season as an opportunity for both proven and unproven players. “There’s motivation,” Stevens said. “I’m excited for the whole group, especially the guys that haven’t shown everything they can do yet.”
Tatum has no public target date for his return, reiterating that he will suit up only when completely cleared.
Source: ESPN
