Tatum Posts 15 Points in First Game Back as Celtics Rout Mavericks 120-100
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Boston, MA — Jayson Tatum ended a 298-day absence on Friday night, recording 15 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists in the Boston Celtics’ 120–100 victory over the Dallas Mavericks at TD Garden.
The forward started his first game since tearing his right Achilles tendon in Game 4 of last season’s Eastern Conference semifinals on May 13. After undergoing surgery the following day, he returned near the front end of the projected nine-to-12-month rehabilitation timeline.
Slow start, quick recovery
Tatum missed his first six shots, including a second-quarter dunk that caromed off the front rim. A put-back slam with 1:16 left in the period settled his nerves, and he connected on six of his next ten attempts. Boston outscored Dallas by 20 during his 27 minutes on the floor.
“I still have a long way to go, but this was a really good step,” Tatum said after acknowledging a “real sense of gratitude” for returning to game action.
Strong finish lifts Boston
The Celtics outpaced the Mavericks 62–47 after halftime, improving to 42-21 and holding second place in the Eastern Conference. Jaylen Brown praised Tatum’s decision to rejoin the lineup, noting the All-Star “wanted to be out there” despite no external pressure.
Head coach Joe Mazzulla said he never doubted Tatum’s intentions, pointing to the player’s immediate choice to have surgery and his intensity throughout rehabilitation.
Minutes to be monitored
Tatum did not specify whether he will play Sunday against the Cleveland Cavaliers, indicating a minutes-management plan is in place.
Boston’s roster has changed significantly since last season’s championship run, with Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porziņģis traded and Al Horford signing with Golden State. Despite the turnover, the Celtics have emerged as one of the league’s early surprises.
Source: ESPN
