Tatum gives fans positive news with latest recovery update
The Boston Celtics star continues his recovery process and has taken another step forward.
Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum offered a fresh update on his long rehabilitation from a ruptured Achilles tendon on Tuesday that gave fans reason to smile, even if it stopped short of confirming a return date.
At 39 weeks into his recovery from the serious injury he suffered in May 2025, Tatum has now resumed more meaningful practice work, marking tangible progress in his journey back to full NBA action.
Tatum took part in 5-on-5 scrimmage drills with the team’s G League affiliate, the Maine Celtics, at the Auerbach Centre. This was his first time in such live-play settings since the injury, and while it does not guarantee that he will be cleared to play in an NBA game this season, it represents a significant milestone in his rehab plan.
The Celtics are sending Jayson Tatum to the Maine Celtics to practice with their @nbagleague affiliate. pic.twitter.com/z56albKyHT
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) February 9, 2026
“Doesn’t mean that I’m coming back or I’m not”
After practice, Tatum was candid with reporters about what the session meant. He insisted that this step should not be confused with an imminent return. “Today is 39 weeks [since the Achilles tear] so it’s been a long journey. And it’s just the progression of rehab, [this was] the next step. Doesn’t mean that I’m coming back or I’m not. We’re just following the plan. It was just another step.” he reflected.
“I just feel a little bit better every day and I just try and focus on that,” he added.
“Obviously I know what I bring to the table and what I’ll bring to the team, but I’m also aware these guys have been playing extremely well,” Tatum said. “Not to say that I’ll come in and mess it up or anything like that. It was just kind of being vulnerable I guess for a moment.”
Jayson Tatum spoke to the media following practice today. pic.twitter.com/iifsPsQmEs
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) February 11, 2026
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The Celtics have thrived this season in his absence, currently boasting one of the stronger records in the Eastern Conference thanks in large part to All-Star teammate Jaylen Brown’s standout play. Brown has emerged as one of the most productive players in the NBA this season in Tatum’s absence, averaging around 29.4 points per game while also contributing nearly 7 rebounds and close to 5 assists per game.
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