Tatum's Triumphant Return Boosts Celtics' Title Hopes

0:00Welcome to NBA News Today, two minutes of updates that matter to NBA fans. Hit subscribe and stay connected. Jason Tatum is back on the core for the Boston Celtics after 10 long months sidelined by a torn riot at Killie's tendon. He suffered the injury in game 4 of the Eastern Conference semi-finals against the next last season, putting his entire year in doubt. Friday night at TD Garden, the superstar made his triumphant return against the Dallas Mavericks, declaring himself fully ready at 100. 1% Tatum ease back in carefully, playing 14 minutes in the first half and scoring 5 points on 2 for 8 shooting. He started slow at 0 for 6, but heated up with a huge put-back dunk off a teammate's miss, firing up the crowd in bench just like Clay Thompson's. Famous return slam a few years back, that energy carried over as he drained a step back 3 on the next possession, then exploded for 7 quick points on 5 for 5 shooting 2, opened the second half. Fans and analysts alike were buzzing about how smooth he looked despite the layoff.

1:04The Celtics have held strong without him, sitting second in the east at 41 wins and 21 losses thanks to a career year from Jalen Brown. And Salah play from Peyton Pritchard and Derek White, each averaging 17 points per game. With 20 games left, Tatum's return gives Boston a real shot to chase the top seed, trailing the pistons by 4.5 games in a tight race. It positions them perfectly for another title push in a wide open conference. D&N is brought to you by our sponsor link in the description. When you want calm, do not reach for your phone. Lay back and listen, S-L-L-I-SaliPillo.com.