LeBron James Shows Respect for Jayson Tatum Over Unbelievable Recovery From Achilles Injury

Jayson Tatum and LeBron James (Photo by Imagn Images)

LeBron James Shows Respect for Jayson Tatum Over Unbelievable Recovery From Achilles Injury

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Kenny Nosay | Last updated Apr 15, 2026 12:58 AM ET

LeBron James has been in the league for a long time, but there are still things that leave him in awe. Apparently, one of those things is how Boston Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum returned on the court after going down with an Achilles injury just 10 months ago.

While the typical time missed for such an injury is around 8 to 12 months, most players who have had a similar ailment usually wait at least a year before playing again. That’s why Tatum returning on the court after just 10 months shows his dedication to the game. And for LeBron James, that kind of love for the game should be applauded.

“For him [Jayson Tatum] to be out 10 months of no basketball, having to recondition himself, then go back into live action, that alone is a milestone. Not only the fans but the peers and everybody, we don’t highlight to celebrate that,” LeBron James said.

LeBron James on Jayson Tatum:

“For him to be out 10 months, having to recondition himself, then go back into live action, that alone is a milestone. The fans and peers don’t celebrate that enough.”

(via @mindthegamepod, h/t @lockedupjb) pic.twitter.com/wDxnGZHlPt
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) April 14, 2026

Great points by LeBron. And yes, what Tatum did should be applauded. He attacked his rehab with unrelenting passion and commitment, showing his dedication to return this season, not the next.

With the Boston Celtics playing well, adding Tatum made them fringe contenders into a legitimate one.

LeBron James’ Dunking Feat Should be Lauded as Well

A quick scroll on YouTube and you’ll find tons of videos regarding ‘old players’ getting celebrated for dunking the ball. Guys like Jeff Green or Vince Carter dunking at the latter stages of their careers have become highlights. Well, safe to say that LeBron James, at 41, might be the best dunker for anybody who played past 40.

LeBron James (Image Credits: Imagn)

This season, he dunked the ball 92 times – his highest mark since the 2017-2018 season. That’s a clear testament to how he’s taking care of his body year after year. Truly, after 23 years, LeBron is still an athletic freak.

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

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