Brad Stevens Talks Tatum’s Recovery, Trade Deadline Plans, and Jordan Walsh’s Rise: Key Takeaways from Celtics' Midseason Outlook
Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens met with reporters Wednesday and pulled back the curtain on a few key storylines surrounding the team - from Jayson Tatum’s injury status to the team’s mindset heading into the trade deadline, and the emergence of rookie Jordan Walsh. It was an impromptu press conference, but Stevens didn’t hold back, offering insight into how the Celtics are navigating a crucial stretch of the season.
Let’s break down the biggest takeaways.
Tatum’s Recovery: No Ceiling, No DPE
One of the first things Stevens addressed was the status of star forward Jayson Tatum, who’s working his way back from an Achilles injury. Notably, the Celtics opted not to file for a Disabled Player Exception (DPE), which would have given them some financial flexibility to replace Tatum if he were expected to miss the season.
But that’s just it - they don’t believe he will.
Stevens made it clear the organization never wanted to “put a ceiling” on what Tatum could do, or how soon he might return. That mindset says a lot.
What started as whispers about a potential season-ending injury has now shifted to a much more optimistic timeline. We’re no longer talking about months on the shelf - we’re talking weeks.
Whether it’s six or eight, the message is clear: Tatum’s return is on the horizon, and the Celtics are planning accordingly.
That kind of confidence from Stevens isn’t just about Tatum’s rehab - it’s about what this team believes it can be at full strength.
Trade Deadline Mentality: Aggressive, If It Makes Sense
Stevens didn’t shy away from the reality that the trade deadline is fast approaching, and he made it clear the Celtics aren’t closing the door on any possibilities. There’s no ceiling on this team, he said - and that applies to the front office, too.
One area to keep an eye on? The center position.
Right now, Neemias Queta is the only true 7-footer consistently seeing minutes. While he’s held his own, the depth behind him is thin, and that’s a concern when you’re trying to contend deep into the postseason. Stevens acknowledged that the team will evaluate all avenues to improve - not just for this year, but with an eye on the future.
The Celtics don’t have to make a move. But if the right opportunity presents itself - especially one that strengthens their interior presence - they’ll be ready to pounce.
Tatum’s looming return only adds fuel to that fire. If this team is close to full strength by the playoffs, a smart addition at the deadline could be the final piece of a championship puzzle.
Jordan Walsh: From Second-Rounder to Defensive Force
Perhaps the most pleasant surprise of the season has been the rapid development of rookie Jordan Walsh. A second-round pick in 2023, Walsh wasn’t expected to play a major role right away - but he’s flipped that narrative on its head.
Not only has Walsh earned a starting role, but he’s also become a defensive game-changer. Opposing players are already taking notice - Austin Reaves recently said Walsh has the potential to be an elite defender in this league - and Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla has made a point to praise the young wing’s impact.
Walsh’s energy, instincts, and tenacity on the defensive end have helped stabilize the Celtics during a stretch when they could’ve easily lost their footing. He’s not just filling a role - he’s elevating the team on both ends of the floor. And for a team that’s built around stars like Tatum and Jaylen Brown, having a rookie step in and contribute like this is a luxury few contenders enjoy.
Bottom Line
Stevens’ comments paint a picture of a Celtics team that’s confident, calculated, and quietly dangerous. Tatum’s recovery is trending in the right direction, the front office is ready to act if the right deal comes along, and a rookie is turning heads with his defensive prowess.
This isn’t a team in panic mode. It’s a team that knows what it has - and what it still might need - to make a deep run. And with Stevens at the helm, the Celtics are keeping all options on the table.