Celtics' Jayson Tatum Makes Announcement Amid NBA Season

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Feb 23, 2026 2:24 PM ET

The Boston Celtics are enjoying an impressive season, and while it is not surprising to see them holding the second seed in the Eastern Conference this deep into the year, the way they have done it stands out.

Boston cut payroll this past offseason and has played the entire season without superstar Jayson Tatum. That absence is significant because Tatum has logged at least 64 games in eight straight seasons since being drafted third overall in the 2017 NBA Draft.

The 27-year-old forward underwent Achilles surgery last May during the second round of the playoffs, and although he has made steady progress in his recovery, the Celtics have had to navigate the year without his presence.

Getting Tatum back at full strength would take an already strong Celtics team to another level.

Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0)© David Butler II-Imagn Images

At this point, Tatum has not committed to returning this season. He has been clear that he must feel completely healthy and confident before stepping back onto the court.

While rehabbing, he has also been documenting his journey. On Sunday night, Tatum posted on Instagram in collaboration with the Celtics and NBC to announce the release of the first episode of his mini documentary series titled The Quiet Work. The caption read, “The Quiet Work: Chapter 1 FULL EPISODE at link in bio.”

This project is the first release from Tatum’s production company, Zero Pressure Productions, created with NBC. The debut episode aired during Sunday Night Basketball as the Celtics defeated the Los Angeles Lakers, and Tatum promoted the release across his other social media platforms as well.

The Quiet Work: Chapter 1

Full Episode: https://t.co/FWT5nMQqxV @NBAonNBC @celtics @NBA pic.twitter.com/Dvl138B2kq
— Jayson Tatum (@jaytatum0) February 23, 2026

The five‑episode series will follow Tatum’s return to the NBA, covering every step from the moment he suffered the injury to the present day. It includes exclusive interviews with coaches, medical staff and people closely involved in his recovery.

Tatum’s on‑court impact speaks for itself. In his last fully healthy season, he averaged 23.6 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.8 assists while shooting 45.9% from the field and 37.0% from beyond the arc across 72 games.

He is a six‑time All‑Star, a five‑time All‑NBA selection and a 2024 NBA champion. His scoring ability, versatility and two‑way presence make him one of the most complete players in the league.

If he returns this season, Boston gains a player capable of shifting the balance of the Eastern Conference, and the Celtics know exactly how much his presence can elevate their ceiling.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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