Jayson Tatum Finally Returning to Celtics

Merlin sees the Celtics’ headline: Jayson Tatum is expected back this season. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon called it “a matter of when, not if.” Team and medical voices report strong progress — Brad Stevens said Tatum “progressed great,” his surgeon called the rehab “remarkably well,” and he was reportedly “a full go” in practice. That matters because Boston, already alive in the East thanks to MVP-level Jalen Brown and a deep roster, gains a true superstar return rather than a hopeful longshot. Merlin notes the fine line after a torn Achilles. Tatum’s 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds and 6.0 assists last year show what returns to the floor. If he regains even most of that form, the Celtics shift from dark horse to serious contender. Expect careful ramping of minutes and playoff-era caution.