Jayson Tatum's Potential Playoff Return

0:00The latest scores, headlines and storylines, right here on NBA News today. Subscribe and stay game ready. Jason Tatum of the Boston Celtics could return to the court as early as Friday night against the Dallas Mavericks. The star forward tore his Achilles tendon in last year's playoffs, and most people figured his 2025-2026 season was done. Before it started, ESPN reporters say it's now looking very likely he'll suit up soon. The Celtics acted like they were rebuilding by trading Drew Holiday and Chris Stapp's Porzingus to cut payroll and gear up for next year. What the team has surprised everyone and sits at 41 wins and 21 losses, good for second in the Eastern Conference standings. Fans are buzzing with excitement over the six-time All-Star's potential comeback right before the playoffs. Still, everyone agrees it's smart to temper those hopes since he'll need time to shake off the rest and get back into game shape during this busy trech. Reports from earlier

1:00this week confirmed the return. Feels inevitable, but coaches will likely ease him in carefully. Think back to Paul George, who broke his leg in 2014 and came back for just the Indiana Pacers' final six games, averaging 8.8 points and 15.2 minutes off the bench. Boston staff, led by coach Joe Mozilla, has the balance chasing another title with protecting Tatum's long-term health. His limited minutes now could best prepare the six-foot-aid forward mentally and physically for opening night this fall. This episode is supported by our sponsor. Some chase peace. I put my head in it. S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com