Jayson Tatum’s road back from a devastating Achilles injury just hit another encouraging checkpoint.
Boot Comes Off as Recovery Gains Momentum
The Boston Celtics superstar took to Instagram Sunday to share that he’s finally removed the protective boot from his right foot – a significant step forward since tearing his Achilles tendon during Game 4 against the Knicks back on May 12. Just 18 hours after that crushing playoff moment, Tatum went under the knife and has spent his summer grinding through what’s arguably the toughest rehab of his career.
Spotted Back on the Court
Days before his social media update, Tatum was caught putting in work at Chattanooga’s basketball facility last Friday. The Celtics haven’t pinned down exactly when their star will return, but most expect the 27-year-old to miss a substantial chunk – possibly all – of the 2025-26 campaign.
Front Office Weighs In on Star’s Progress
Celtics president Brad Stevens remains bullish about Tatum’s comeback trajectory. During Boston’s Summer League broadcast on July 13, Stevens didn’t sugarcoat the mental and physical toll these injuries exact. “He’s a competitor,” Stevens remarked. “From the moment he had surgery, his mindset has been about pushing forward and getting better.”
Stevens highlighted something that speaks volumes about Tatum’s character: instead of jetting off somewhere exotic this offseason, the All-Star stayed put in Boston, laser-focused on his rehabilitation. That kind of commitment doesn’t go unnoticed in the front office.
What He’s Coming Back To
Before that brutal injury derailed his playoffs, Tatum was operating at an elite level – five All-NBA nods under his belt and fresh off averaging 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 6.0 assists last season. When he does reclaim his spot, he’ll find a dramatically different Celtics roster waiting for him. Gone are Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday, while Anfernee Simons and Georges Niang have joined the mix.
