Celtics Tight Lipped on Jayson Tatum Achilles Return

Joe Mazzulla is keeping quiet on Jayson Tatum as the star inches back from a torn Achilles. Mazzulla confirmed Tatum was at Celtics practice Saturday but refused to say if he took part. Tatum recently ran 5-on-5 with the Maine G League and noted, "Today is 39 weeks [since the Achilles tear] so it's been a long journey," adding that the session "doesn't mean that I'm coming back or I'm not." Boston sits 36-19 and is clearly pacing the recovery, yet Tatum’s playoff availability would be a big lift for a title push. Merlin sees caution and strategy at work. Tatum’s presence is a promising sign, not a promise. Boston will value a healthy, effective return over a rushed cameo. Watch the rehab steps and how the rotation adapts once the postseason draws near.