Jayson Tatum Nears Return, But No Guarantees Yet - Meanwhile, Bill Simmons Points Finger Over Achilles Injuries
Jayson Tatum is inching closer to a potential return for the Boston Celtics, but the All-Star forward isn’t ready to lock anything in just yet. After taking part in a practice session with the Maine Celtics - Boston’s G League affiliate - Tatum spoke publicly for the first time since October, and while the update was encouraging, he made it clear: nothing is set in stone.
“It doesn’t mean I’m coming back or not,” Tatum said, addressing his rehab and the buzz surrounding his G League appearance. “Still trying to figure it out. Still just going through the progressions of rehab.”
That’s the reality right now for Tatum - a day-by-day grind. He noted that his body is responding well, and there’s been consistent improvement in his physical condition and confidence.
“I feel a little bit better today than I did yesterday - the physical, conditioning, trusting it, every day I feel a little bit better,” he added. “More conditioning, more live things.
Getting acclimated to playing 5-on-5 and contact.”
It’s a cautious but promising update for Celtics fans hoping to see their franchise cornerstone back before the season wraps. But Tatum, now deep into his recovery process, is clearly prioritizing long-term health over rushing back to the court.
While Tatum’s situation remains fluid, the broader conversation around player injuries - specifically Achilles tears - took a sharp turn when Bill Simmons chimed in with some pointed commentary. On his podcast, Simmons suggested there could be a connection between certain lower leg injuries and the training methods of specific shooting coaches.
“How about like the footwork shooting coaches, and I don't have to name them, but how come certain clients of certain shooting coaches seem to have lower leg injuries all the time?” Simmons said.
“It’s because they’re putting too much stress on their lower legs. Tyrese Haliburton and Jayson Tatum shouldn’t be blowing out their Achilles at age 26, 27 - it’s ridiculous.”
Simmons didn’t drop any names, but the implication was clear. The coach in question has worked with a number of high-profile NBA stars, including Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Bradley Beal, Zach LaVine, and Tyler Herro - all players known for their advanced footwork and perimeter skills.
The comment comes in the wake of both Tatum and Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton suffering Achilles injuries. Haliburton, unlike Tatum, is not expected to return this season, with his recovery timeline likely pushing into the next campaign.
Tatum, meanwhile, remains a question mark for the remainder of the regular season. His involvement with the Maine Celtics is a strong sign that he’s making progress, but he’s not ready to commit to a timeline. For now, it’s about building trust in his body again - step by step, drill by drill.
The Celtics are set to host the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday, and while Tatum won’t be suiting up just yet, all eyes will be on how his rehab continues to unfold in the coming weeks. If he can return in time for the playoffs, it could be a massive boost for Boston. But as of now, the message from Tatum is clear: patience over promises.