
Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum has not ruled out playing during the 2025–26 NBA season despite undergoing surgery for a torn Achilles in May. Tatum remains focused on his recovery while keeping the possibility of suiting up later this season alive.
Appearing on The Today Show, Tatum said, “Not rushing it. But I haven’t said like, ‘Yo, I’m not playing this season,’ or anything like that.” The 27-year-old has been working out six days a week as part of his rehab process.
NBA insider Jake Fischer reported that Tatum is part of a torn Achilles recovery group text including Tyrese Haliburton and Damian Lillard. Fischer highlighted that the recovery process has improved dramatically compared with previous standards.
Fischer noted, via HoopsHype, “There’s definitely buzz that Tatum could potentially be back sometime in March. They probably made vast improvements in surgery and recovery. That is certainly true.” He added that Lillard recently returned to shooting drills in Portland, showing how rehab timelines have accelerated.
Tatum suffered the injury on May 12 during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks. The non-contact tear occurred late in the fourth quarter while diving for a loose ball, with surgery following the next day.
Before the injury, Tatum averaged 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 6.0 assists over 72 regular-season games in 2024–25.