Tatum's Return Shakes Up Eastern Conference

0:00The latest scores, headlines, and storylines, right here on NBA News Today. Subscribe and stay game ready. Jason Tatum is finally clear to return for the Boston Celtics after missing nearly a full year with a torn right Achilles tendon from last season's playoffs. The star forward could make his debut as soon as Friday night against the Dallas Mavericks. His comeback is huge news for NBA fans, especially with the playoffs heating up in the Eastern Conference. Without Tatum, the Celtics have staged strong at 41 wins and 21 losses, sitting second in the east. That's five games behind the Detroit Pistons, who lead with the best record at 45 and 15. Boston has leaned on Jalen Brown, whose fifth in league scoring at 28.9 points per game. Tatum's return ramps up the pressure on Detroit's top spot and their finals dreams. Fans see it as a major shakeup, with the Celtics now favored in betting odds at plus 750 to win at all, tied for second best.

1:00The Pistons sit further back at plus 1700. This season without Tatum, Detroit took the regular season series three games to one, but last year with him healthy, Boston flipped it the same way. Tatum averaged 32 points in his two games against the Pistons then, highlighting his edge in a long playoff series. Expect a potential Eastern Conference finals clash between these defensive powerhouses. While the Pistons boast young talent like Cade Cunningham, Boston's playoff experience and debt from players like Derek White and Peyton Pritchard. Give them the upper hand moving forward. Support for this episode comes from our sponsor. See the description. You know what is better than earbuds and bed? No earbuds at all. S-O-L-I. SoliPillow.com. SoliPillow.com. SoliPillow.com.