The Boston Celtics are turning heads this NBA season, surprising fans and analysts alike. As they gear up to face the Golden State Warriors on Thursday night, post-All-Star break, they're sitting comfortably in second place in the Eastern Conference with a solid 35-19 record.
Trailing the Detroit Pistons by 5.5 games, the Celtics are shaping up to be a formidable force come playoff time. The trio of Jaylen Brown, Payton Pritchard, and Derrick White have been the driving force behind head coach Joe Mazzulla’s offense, while the defense has consistently held strong. What’s truly remarkable is how they've managed this success without their All-Star, Jayson Tatum.
Tatum, sidelined all season due to an Achilles injury sustained in last year's playoff loss to the New York Knicks, has been making strides in his rehabilitation and is back in practice. Yet, his return to the court remains uncertain. While there's buzz about Tatum potentially rejoining the lineup this season, he's cautious about rushing back before he's fully ready.
In a conversation with NBA insider Chris Haynes, Tatum expressed his determination to return. “I'm trying to come back and I am doing everything I can to come back,” he shared. “I just don't know if I can.”
Should Tatum make his comeback in time for the playoffs, it could significantly bolster Boston's postseason prospects, giving them an even stronger shot at a deep run.