Celtics‘ Playoff Push Won’t Factor Into Jayson Tatum‘s Return, Says NBA Insider
BOSTON – A swift return to All-Star form for Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum during a potential playoff run is ”not realistic,” according to NBA insider Zach Lowe. Despite the Celtics’ surprisingly strong start to the 2025-26 season, the team will prioritize a cautious recovery for Tatum, even if they remain in contention for a postseason berth.
Tatum has been sidelined with an injury, and his absence prompted significant offseason changes for the Celtics, including trades of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis. Many observers predicted a difficult season for Boston without their star player, but the team currently holds a 11-9 record and sits seventh in the Eastern Conference. However, Lowe cautioned against expecting an immediate, top-tier impact from Tatum upon his return.
“We cannot just project like, ‘Oh, yeah, First-Team, All-NBA. Jayson Tatum is coming right in for the playoff race,'” Lowe said on a recent podcast.”That’s not realistic at all.”
The Celtics are proceeding deliberately with Tatum’s rehabilitation, and will not be swayed by the team’s playoff positioning when making decisions about his return to the court.While plenty of basketball remains in the season, Boston is committed to a measured approach to ensure Tatum’s long-term health.
