Former All-Star Believes Jayson Tatum Will Return Sooner Rather Than Later

As one of the top players in the NBA, Tatum's injury has had ripple effects on the team. Most people think that the Eastern Conference won't have the Boston Celtics as its best team anymore, as the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers are favored instead.

However, that might change if Tatum is available during the NBA season. For former All-Star guard and Tatum's past teammate, Jeff Teague, he believes that the six-time All-Star will return midway through the 2025-26 season.

Teague Feels Tatum Will Be Ready to Play This Season

Moving forward, the Celtics should have an intriguing campaign in the 2025-26 season. Jaylen Brown is set to be the team's superstar player, considering people see him as the lone star now that Tatum is out.

Derrick White should be his co-star, but Payton Pritchard could also make some noise as a budding star. The reigning Sixth Man of the Year is set to start, while Anfernee Simons will take over that role.

Joe Mazzulla has a strong squad heading into the 2025-26 season, but it is not as good as in previous years. However, the Celtics could easily return to the top if Tatum returns at full strength.

For Teague, he believes that Tatum can do it within the season.

"That’s crazy. My boy is playing. Do y’all think he’s going to play this year? Doing that, I’ll say he’ll play. I'm giving him until February. I think he makes a return in February," Teague said on Club 520.

"I've seen Tyrese (Haliburton) walking, and he was struggling. He's not playing anytime, son. To see JT, something is not right."

Tatum Could Have an All-Timer Return

The Celtics already have a strong roster, but a Tatum return could change the NBA. He will make it possible for athletes to return within only 10 months, which usually does not happen. It is within the timeline, yes, but it is unlikely in the NBA to be closer to the lower end.

IF Tatum does return, the Celtics are in a good spot with him. By then, the team would have gelled already, but Tatum would have only watched. Thankfully, he is one of the most adaptable players, so it won't be much of an issue.

Tatum returning to the NBA will be challenging, but the possibility could change. With Tatum now being clear for basketball capabilities, the future is a strong feature for the Celtics..

It will be challenging to set a goal within the 2025-26 season. Tatum has the talent, but it will be tough to bounce back from a