Celtics eye center help as Jayson Tatum quietly works toward return

The Celtics have some decisions coming as they look for center help, and two contracts may determine what’s possible.

Brian Robb of MassLive writes that Boston could use Anfernee Simons’ expiring deal as a trade chip, even taking back a longer contract just to preserve flexibility for the summer.

Sam Hauser’s team-friendly number also gives the front office options.

Meanwhile, Jayson Tatum has been quietly grinding behind the scenes.

He’s recovering from the Achilles injury he suffered in the playoffs, and while Boston hasn’t put a timetable on anything, teammates keep saying the same thing — he looks good.

“He’s staying mentally, physically, emotionally prepared,” Hauser said via The Boston Globe. “He’s working his tail off every day … his presence is still felt even though he’s not out there with us.”

Tatum hopes to play before season’s end. Even if he’s not ready to carry the team through the postseason, Adam Himmelsbach notes it could be valuable for him to log a few games and build chemistry with the young guys.

He’s been more active in practices open to the media, moving freely in shooting drills and showing no obvious limitations.

For now, the Celtics wait — on trades, on roster clarity, and on the franchise star who’s inching closer.