Boston’s Jayson Tatum Keeps Open the Possibility of Playing in 2025-26
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Boston — Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum said he has not ruled out stepping on the court during the 2025-26 NBA season, despite a ruptured right Achilles tendon that was expected to sideline him all year.
Speaking on ESPN’s “First Take” on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025, the 27-year-old six-time All-Star responded directly when asked about giving teammate Jaylen Brown more room to lead. “First thing, I haven’t said I’m not playing this season,” Tatum told the show. “I don’t go to rehab six days a week for nothing.”
Steady Progress After May Surgery
The typical recovery window for a torn Achilles ranges from six to 12 months. Tatum has been rehabbing since undergoing surgery on May 13, one day after suffering the injury during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks. He left that game in a wheelchair and has not played since.
In August, the eight-year veteran attended a New York Patriots practice without a walking boot or brace, signaling visible progress. He emphasized that any comeback will hinge on a full recovery: “I’m not rushing it at all,” he said on ESPN.
Support From Fellow Achilles Recoveries
Tatum added that he stays in regular contact with Damian Lillard, Dejounte Murray and Tyrese Haliburton, three other NBA players rehabbing Achilles injuries. “We’re all in the same boat, just kind of checking in on each other,” he said.
Career Milestones Remain Intact
Selected third overall by Boston in the 2017 draft, Tatum has earned five All-NBA selections, including the last four on the First Team. His 42-point performance in May tied him with Larry Bird and John Havlicek for the most 40-point playoff games in Celtics history (five). He also ranks second only to LeBron James in postseason points scored before turning 28, according to ESPN Stats & Information.
The Celtics open the 2025-26 season at home against the Philadelphia 76ers on Oct. 22. Whether Tatum will be available by then—or at any point this season—remains uncertain, but the forward made clear the door is still open.
Source: Basketball Insiders
