Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum has taken a significant step in his recovery from a ruptured right Achilles tendon suffered last season, as he has begun participating in controlled five-on-five scrimmages under the supervision of the Celtics’ coaching staff. This update, revealed by league insider Shams Charania on Sunday, signals progress in Tatum’s long-awaited return to the court.
According to Charania, Tatum has been diligent throughout his rehabilitation process and is now entering critical phases that involve integrated practice with the team. Despite this progress, the mental and physical challenges remain, given the severity of an Achilles injury and the competitive aspirations of the Celtics this season.
“Sources tell me Jayson Tatum has started controlled five-on-five scrimmaging with coaches,” Charania said. “He has aggressively attacked his rehab at every turn…there’s more phases in his rehab, he has to practice with his team of course, and then again there’s also the normal nerves of coming back from an injury of this magnitude, a torn achilles, in May, to a really good team that has aspirations to advance in the playoffs.”
Tatum Reflects on Injury and Uncertain Timeline for Return
Jayson Tatum has not committed to a definitive return for the current season and remains uncertain about playing in 2025-26. On “The Pivot Podcast,” he discussed the emotional and mental toll of recovering from such a serious injury, emphasizing the complexity of the rehabilitation experience and the deep reflection on his future role with the Celtics.
During Tatum’s absence, the Boston Celtics hold a strong position in the Eastern Conference, standing second with a record of 34-18. Jaylen Brown has been instrumental in maintaining the team’s performance, contributing an average of 29.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game.
Kendrick Perkins Shares Opinion on Tatum’s Potential Return
Former NBA player Kendrick Perkins weighed in on ESPN’s First Take, emphasizing that Jayson Tatum should return to the Celtics if given medical clearance. Perkins believes Tatum’s presence will significantly enhance the team’s competitiveness in the East, especially as a complementary player alongside Jaylen Brown.
“You damn right he should,” Perkins said. “If he’s cleared by the doctors you’re damn right…. You put Tatum back in the mix even if he becomes the 1B to Jaylen Brown being the 1A, They are still the best duo in the Eastern Conference in my opinion.”
Tatum’s Impact and Celtics’ Current Outlook
Jayson Tatum has been a key figure for the Celtics, leading them to their 18th NBA title in the 2023-2024 season. Over his eight seasons in Boston, he has averaged 23.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. His potential return carries high significance for the Celtics’ ambitions as the playoffs approach.
The Celtics’ fanbase, known as Boston Celtics Nation, continues to follow the team’s schedule closely along with evolving roster developments for the 2024-25 NBA season. Tatum’s progress is highly anticipated not only for his individual comeback but also for its impact on the Celtics’ playoff race and long-term success.
Reporting for ABC NBA Countdown — the latest on Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum's rehab: pic.twitter.com/hjtj2PsLoj
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 8, 2026
Kendrick Perkins if Jayson Tatum should return this season:
"You damn right he should. If hes cleared by the doctors you're damn right…. You put Tatum back in the mix even if he becomes the 1B to Jaylen Brown being the 1A, They are still the best duo in the Eastern Conference… pic.twitter.com/58Nu1L2v8h
— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) January 29, 2026
