Jayson Tatum Battling Back From Torn Achilles for Celtics

Jayson Tatum is back after missing 62 games with a torn Achilles but is still working toward his old form. He has scored in double figures in eight games with five 20-point outings, yet admitted, "I ain't know how this s--t was going to be," and an Eastern Conference assistant likened the slow midseason climb to the "45 Jordan year." Boston remains one of the East favorites and now faces the Thunder in a possible Finals preview. Merlin sees the comparison as about timing more than outcome. Rebuilding rhythm after an Achilles injury is different from returning from baseball, but the Celtics’ depth and playoff experience give Tatum room to peak late. His frank talk is a good sign; healing the body and mind will decide whether Boston leans on him or leans on its supporting cast.