Derrick White says what has been ‘fun to see’ Jayson Tatum do in Achilles injury rehab, ‘He’s kind of crazy’

Derrick White comments on Jayson Tatum’s Achilles recovery

White joked that Tatum looks like he’s ready to play in the NBA already before complimenting his attitude.

He is convinced that the same work ethic that helped Tatum become an NBA superstar will help him make a full recovery.

However, White did not add any fuel to the fire concerning Tatum’s potential return later this season.

“He looks like he’s playing tomorrow. He was super excited to get on the court,” White said. “It’s been a long time for him.

“He’s probably been counting down the days until he can get on the court, but yeah, he’s always in there working. He’s kind of crazy.

“I don’t know anything about Achilles’ recovery or where he should or shouldn’t be. I know he’s in there every day working, trying to get better.

“He looks good, trying to get stronger. He’s just enjoying the journey of getting back to it as much as you can enjoy it.

“You don’t get to the level that he got to without being a hard worker. He’s taken it to the rehab process now. It’s been fun to see.

“It’s good to see him get back out there on the court and just start doing a little bit more and more.”

Jayson Tatum predicted to return before the end of the season

Former NBA All-Star Jeff Teague has predicted which month Jayson Tatum will return to NBA action this season.

He pointed out that Tatum looks much further along in his recovery than Tyrese Haliburton and tipped the Celtics forward to come back in February. 

“That’s crazy. My boy is playing,” Teague explained. “Do y’all think he’s going to play this year? Doing that, I’ll say he’ll play by… I’m giving him until February. I think he makes a return in February.

“I’ve seen Tyrese walking, and he was [hobbling]. He’s not playing anytime soon. To see [Tatum], something is not right.”