Jayson Tatum, the Boston Celtics’ All-NBA forward, is nearing a return to action following his Achilles tendon injury sustained during last year’s playoffs. After missing the entire season so far, there are strong indications that he will be back on the court soon, with Bill Simmons projecting his comeback as early as Friday’s game against the Dallas Mavericks. The Celtics, currently battling in the Eastern Conference with a 40-20 record, are counting on Tatum’s return to boost their chances for another championship run.
Bill Simmons sets expectations for Tatum’s reappearance this week
On a recent episode of The Bill Simmons Podcast, longtime NBA analyst and devoted Boston sports fan Bill Simmons shared his impression that the March 6 matchup between the Celtics and Mavericks, airing on ESPN, will mark Tatum’s first game back. Simmons expressed confidence in the timing, telling guest Zach Lowe,
Tatum, it feels like it’s gonna be Friday, Dallas. All signs are pointing to Friday, Dallas,
and added,
I was wondering if it would be this weekend, but by Friday I think it was not going to be this weekend.
Stephen A. Smith advises patience in Jayson Tatum’s recovery
Meanwhile, sports commentator Stephen A. Smith recently emphasized the importance of caution, urging Tatum not to rush his return unless fully prepared. On First Take, Smith highlighted the Celtics’ favorable position and the ample time available to secure another title. He remarked,
You’re 27-years-old, Jaylen Brown is 28, and you’ve been to five conference finals, he’s been to six. You’ve been to two NBA Finals, he’s been to two NBA Finals. You both have won a championship together already, and you’ve got plenty of time to figure out to figure out how to do it again,
further adding,
You’ve got ample amount of time as a dynamic duo to pull this off. … You do have a legitimate beef to say ‘What’s the rush?’ They’ve got plenty of time.
Progress on Tatum’s rehabilitation and documentary insight
Jayson Tatum has been gradually advancing through his recovery process, recently sharing intimate details in the first two episodes of his documentary series, The Quiet Work, which chronicles his journey back from injury. This glimpse into his rehabilitation efforts suggests a steady and measured path toward his eventual return to the Celtics’ starting lineup. With the season still underway and the Eastern Conference race tight, the timing of his comeback will carry significant implications for Boston’s postseason hopes.
Jayson Tatum back Friday????
Per: @BillSimmons
“Tatum, it feels like it’s gonna be Friday vs Dallas. All signs are pointing to Friday, Dallas.”
🤔
— Savage (@Savageboston) March 2, 2026
"Age 27, and you've been to five Conference Finals and two NBA Finals, and [you're] a champion. … They got plenty of time."@stephenasmith thinks Jayson Tatum should hold off on returning this season 🏀 pic.twitter.com/44jQYQD9rH
— First Take (@FirstTake) February 26, 2026
