Boston sparks dreams with Tatum, but fans fear too quick comeback

Jayson Tatum is reaching a new important milestone in his rehabilitation. The Boston Celtics star, who injured his Achilles tendon last May, was spotted this week at the New England Patriots training camp, walking on the field without his protective boot. An encouraging sight for Celtics fans who are eagerly awaiting their star player’s return.

« That first 6 weeks of this, was probably the toughest six weeks of any point in my life… now I gotta do everything in my power to get back to who I was. »

— Jayson Tatum talks about his rehabpic.twitter.com/jl5FmJxk24

— jb (@lockedupjb) August 20, 2025

A « tedious » but promising rehabilitation

In a TikTok video published by the NBA, Tatum was transparent about his recovery process: « Rehabilitation is tedious, man six days a week. It’s starting to get a little better now, I’ve removed the boot, » the player shared. « Better days are ahead, but I’m just trying to take things day by day. »

The injury occurred on May 12, during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks. Tatum underwent surgery the next day. Despite the severity of this injury, several signs indicate that his recovery is progressing better than expected.

Encouraging signs according to the organization

Brad Stevens, Celtics’ president of basketball operations, had already expressed his optimism in June: « He has actually progressed very well, but I don’t know what that means in terms of expected timelines. But it will be in consultation with him… and everyone else to ensure that when he returns to the court, he’s fully ready and completely healthy. And that will be the priority. »

A scout interviewed by Heavy Sports in late July had even stated that Tatum appeared « way ahead » in his recovery and that he was « moving well. » These observations align with the player’s recent public appearances.

Tatum, who has been selected to the All-NBA First Team for the past four seasons, could miss a large portion, if not all, of the 2025-2026 season. Nevertheless, his performance from last season (26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game) reminds us of the importance of his return for the Celtics’ ambitions.