Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum is progressing well in his torn Achilles tendon rehab. Initially, Tatum was expected to miss the entire 2025-26 NBA season. However, his speedy recovery could lead to him making an appearance for the No. 2 team in the East late in the campaign.
This month, Tatum was cleared to play in 5-on-5 scrimmages with the team’s G-League affiliate, the Maine Celtics. While he performed well during the practices, according to the Celtics, there still isn’t a date for his potential return.
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On Wednesday, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported a positive update on the one-time champion. The Celtics have decided to put Tatum in 5-on-5 scrimmages with his Celtics teammates.
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum speaks with reporters during media day at the Auerbach Center on Sept. 29, 2025.David Butler II-Imagn Images
(David Butler II-Imagn Images)
“I’m told that Jayson Tatum is a full go in 5-on-5 scrimmages with the Celtics,” Charania said. “Right now, it’s about him putting together a number of practices and scrimmages to build up his conditioning and increase the strength in both of his calves.
“The hurdle of being 100% mentally ready, a 100% confidence in that right leg. Because the common theme from people close to Jayson Tatum is him getting out there and returning to action is, quote, ‘When JT feels like JT.’ So, the Celtics will take Tatum’s lead, he’s in the driver’s seat, he’s gonna be the one to make the decision.”
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According to Charania, the Celtics aren’t putting any pressure on Tatum. The franchise wants to wait for the NBA star to decide when he will return. Boston has 25 games left in the season, enough time for the star to think about it.
Related: Celtics’ Jayson Tatum Makes Announcement Amid NBA Season
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Feb 26, 2026, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.