Celtics’ Jayson Tatum Teases Exact Date For Injury Return

Boston Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum was extremely candid in his appearance on ESPN’s “NBA Today” on Tuesday.

Tatum, who is just four months removed from suffering a torn Achilles tendon during Game 3 of his club’s semifinals matchup with the New York Knicks, did a media tour this week and discussed all things relating to his recovery — most of which will have fans excited.

Tatum not only teased returning during the 2025-26 season, but says he has a specific date in mind:

“I haven’t said I’m not playing this season,” Tatum said. “… I’m not rushing it at all, but also, I don’t go to rehab six days a week for nothing.

“… I put a date on the calendar of when I will be ready. Whenever that date is, it will be a home game in front of the fans at TD Garden. That is something that I have dreamed about and envisioned”

Dr. Martin O’Malley, who performed the forward’s surgery just hours after the injury, is extremely impressed with the recovery just four months out.

“I don’t think I’ve seen a person’s calf look as strong as his, O’Malley said, per People. “… He worked his calf so hard that the side effect of loss of strength, I don’t think he’s going to have any.”

Tatum has set the standards rather high, and soon will be time to reach them. The Celtics can’t wait to find out whether he’ll be up to the task.