Jayson Tatum's Projected Return Date for Celtics Revealed by Insider

March 02, 2026


When Jayson Tatum went down with a torn Achilles in the 2025 playoffs, it was not only the end of the Boston Celtics' hopes of repeating as NBA champions, but it was thought to have wiped out their chances of competing, or even making the playoffs, this season. 

But if that's an injury that's supposed to keep a player out for a full year, Tatum didn't get the memo. He's been adamant all season that he would be returning before the 2025-26 season was done, and now it's apparently close to coming to fruition.

It's being reported (or, at least, projected) that Tatum, perennial MVP candidate and First Team All-NBA, will be making his return to the Celtics lineup this Friday. 

"It feels like it's gonna be Friday (against) Dallas," podcaster Bill Simmons said. "All signs are pointing to Friday Dallas." 

It should be noted that the Celtics nor Tatum himself has announced a date for his return, but Simmons is usually plugged in on all things Celtics. Then again, he's also been known to get a little overly excited with some of his predictions as well, and be way off.

As for whether the Celtics superstar will be taking it easy upon his return, Tatum doesn't want to hear any of that. 

Tatum said to his doctor during the rehab process, "I didn't come here to be no role player, doc."

And the crazy thing about all this is that the Celtics just ascended to the top of the chart as the NBA's No. 1 ranked offense—without Tatum. That's a scary thought for the rest of the league. 

Boston has already shocked the basketball world by going 40-20 without him this season, sitting in 2nd spot in the Eastern Conference.

Tatum has averaged over 27 points per game over the last five seasons, along with close to 8.5 rebounds and 5.0 assists. 

Photo: © Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

 

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