Celtics' Tatum unsure if he'll play this season

Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum is uncertain if he'll return this season after rupturing his right Achilles tendon in May during the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks.

Tatum told ESPN's Ramona Shelburne that he "wants to get it right the first time, so it's just a lot to think about."

The six-time All-Star held a workout in front of reporters in Detroit last week, sparking speculation of a potential return during the 2025-26 campaign.

Tatum's rehabilitation is progressing positively, but he's holding off on making a decision due to the severity of the injury, according to Shelburne.

The Celtics organization has yet to provide a timeline for Tatum's injury, though he did hint at a potential return earlier in the season. "I haven't said I'm not playing this season," Tatum said in September.

"But also, I don't go to rehab six days a week for nothing," Tatum added.

In Tatum's absence, the Celtics have amassed a 29-18 record, level with the Knicks for second spot in the East, six games back of the Detroit Pistons.

Jaylen Brown has become Boston's No. 1 option with Tatum on the sidelines, and is averaging a career-high 29.2 points per game. Brown was named as a starter for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, his fifth selection for the midseason event.