(AP) — Jayson Tatum is eager to return to NBA action as quickly as possible but feels no urgency to rush back only five months after tearing his right Achilles tendon.
“There’s no pressure,” Tatum stated during the Celtics’ media day on Monday. “I won’t come back until I’m 100% healthy. There’s no pressure from (Celtics president of basketball operations) Brad (Stevens), coach Joe (Mazzulla), or anyone else in the organization. The priority is my complete recovery.”
Despite his injury, Tatum looked ready for the season, sporting his hair in fresh braids and donning the Celtics’ green uniform, including his recognizable white leg sleeve.
However, Monday also highlighted the challenges ahead in his rehabilitation process, with only 140 days having passed since he began post-surgery recovery.
“Today is nice,” Tatum remarked. “Tomorrow might be more difficult since practice starts and I won’t be able to participate.”
Last season, the Celtics were competing to defend their 2024 NBA championship when Tatum was hurt late in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks.
This season, expectations are lower following significant offseason changes, including the trades of Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday as the Celtics aim to navigate the second luxury tax apron. In Tatum’s absence, Jaylen Brown will take on more responsibility as the team’s healthy All-Star.
Brown stated he won’t significantly change his approach without Tatum. “I’ll keep doing what I’ve always done. Obviously, I have more responsibility now, but this also opens opportunities for others to step up and contribute,” he explained.
Tatum’s Recovery Journey
While Tatum didn’t specify his recovery timeline, he has started light basketball workouts as part of a six-day weekly rehab regimen. He’s receiving strong support from the Celtics, including team trainer Nick Sang, who ensures Tatum stays on track even during travels.
Mazzulla adjusted his summer schedule to support Tatum during key rehabilitation milestones. “As a coach, it’s my duty to be there for my players,” Mazzulla noted, emphasizing the importance of being present during Tatum’s recovery milestones.
Tatum is also part of an “Achilles group chat” with fellow NBA stars Tyrese Haliburton, Damian Lillard, and Dejounte Murray, which has aided his mental health and provided perspective on recovery progress.
“I’m in a really good spot. Tomorrow will mark five months since my injury,” Tatum shared. “It’s been a long road, but there have been bright spots along the way, like getting back on the court for basketball workouts. It truly felt great to be dribbling the ball again.”
Anticipating Team Growth
Despite the offseason changes, Stevens sees this season as a chance for Brown, Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard to elevate their games further. Stevens is optimistic about the potential of the entire roster, noting, “There’s definitely motivation. I’m excited for the unproven guys to showcase their skills.”
