Celtics Reportedly 'Cautiously Optimistic' Jayson Tatum Returns from Injury in 2025-26

Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum may not miss the 2025-26 NBA season as he recovers from a torn Achilles injury, with reports indicating that the team has not ruled out his return.

ESPN's Shams Charania reported on The Pat McAfee Show that the Celtics are cautiously optimistic about Tatum's potential comeback, noting that Tatum himself has expressed a goal to play, which was highlighted by his posting of a video showing him dunking on the same day.

Tatum sustained the injury during the Celtics' second-round playoff loss to the New York Knicks on May 12, and given the typical year-plus recovery period for Achilles injuries, it was initially assumed he would be unavailable for the upcoming season, similar to other players like Tyrese Haliburton and Damian Lillard who are set to miss the 2025-26 campaign.

However, Tatum appears to be progressing faster in his recovery, as evidenced by his recent videos of on-court workouts, which drew a response from Kevin Durant, who has personal experience with a similar injury that caused him to miss an entire season after rupturing his Achilles in 2019.

Tatum emphasized in a statement on First Take that he has not ruled out playing this season, is focused on a full recovery without rushing it, and is dedicated to rehabilitation six days a week, with his early surgery the day after the injury potentially contributing to a quicker return.

His potential return could significantly impact the Celtics' season outlook, especially after the team lost key players like Kristaps Porziņģis, Jrue Holiday, and Al Horford, as Tatum's presence could provide a boost for playoff contention, though the decision may depend on the team's performance in the standings to avoid risking an early comeback.

Overall, the situation remains fluid, but there is no definitive ruling that Tatum will be out for the 2025-26 season.