Jaylen Brown isn’t ready to close the door on a Jayson Tatum return just yet - and if you’ve followed Tatum’s career, you can understand why.
During a recent livestream with rapper DDG, Brown didn’t hold back his optimism about his teammate’s recovery from an Achilles tear. “JT just always recovers,” Brown said.
“He always recovers… He’ll probably break the record for fastest recovery in Achilles history or some (expletive). I wouldn’t put it past him.”
That’s not just blind faith. It’s the kind of belief that comes from years of seeing Tatum grind through adversity and come out stronger. Inside the Celtics’ locker room, that work ethic carries weight - even if the medical reality of Achilles injuries typically demands a long, cautious road back.
The Celtics themselves have been careful not to make any promises. Publicly, the message has been consistent: no timeline, no pressure, and Tatum won’t return until he’s fully cleared by the medical staff.
That’s the smart play. Achilles injuries aren’t something you rush, especially when we’re talking about a franchise cornerstone.
Still, Brown’s comments give us a glimpse into the mindset of the team - a group that knows what Tatum is made of. They’ve seen him push through pain, rehab relentlessly, and come back sharper. That kind of history breeds confidence, even when the odds say otherwise.
Brown, meanwhile, missed Saturday’s game in Toronto due to a non-COVID illness. It was a tough blow considering the momentum he was riding after a standout performance the night before: 30 points, nine boards, and seven assists in 35 minutes - one of his most complete games of the season.
As for Tatum, whether he suits up again this season remains an open question. The Celtics aren’t rushing it, and they shouldn’t.
But if you’re looking for signs of hope inside the building, Brown’s belief speaks volumes. The door’s not shut - not by a long shot.