Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum has made significant advancements in his rehabilitation, nearing a decision on when he might return to play, according to ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania. The 27-year-old forward has been actively participating in full-team 5-on-5 drills, marking an important step in his recovery process.
Details on the Return Decision Process
Charania explained that while Tatum has been ramping up his participation in practice for several weeks, the ultimate choice to return lies with the player himself. Multiple stakeholders, including doctors, Celtics officials, and Tatum’s representatives, will hold a meeting to finalize the timing and ensure all parties are confident in the readiness to move forward.
“Jayson Tatum has been doing 5 on 5 for a period of weeks now. These are the steps you take as you ramp up. At the end of the day only he can be the one that gives the final clearance,”
Charania said on the Throwbacks show.
“About a dozen people involved here at the end. Doctors, his side, Celtics officials, are eventually gonna gather in a room and be like ‘ok, we’re good. Let’s move forward,”
he added.
Tatum’s Performance Before the Injury and Team Outlook
Before being sidelined, Tatum had been delivering an outstanding 2024-25 season, averaging 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game, shooting efficiently from the field and beyond the arc. His role as Boston’s primary offensive weapon and a top two-way wing has been crucial to the team’s success.
Despite his absence, the Celtics have maintained strong competitiveness. Boston currently holds a 36-19 record, securing second place in the Eastern Conference and positioning themselves well for the upcoming playoff stretch.
