NBA Notes: Celtics, Jayson Tatum, Pacers, Ivica Zubac, Pistons

Celtics

Jayson Tatum checked an important box this week.

Monday’s practice with the Celtics’ G League affiliate marked the first time Tatum has participated in a full five-on-five scrimmage with NBA and G League players during his recovery from an Achilles tear, according to Shams Charania on NBA Today.

Charania said Tatum looked “great,” while noting several checkpoints still remain before a return becomes realistic.

“I’m feeling good,” Tatum said afterward, per Brian Robb of MassLive. “(Tuesday) is 39 weeks since the injury, so it’s been a long journey. And it’s just like the progression of rehab. It was the next step. Doesn’t mean that I’m coming back or I’m not. It’s just following the plan. So it’s just another step.”

The Celtics are 35-19 and sit second in the East despite not having Tatum at all this season. He said there was “no doubt” entering the year that Boston could hold its ground while he recovered, calling it “really fun and cool” to watch the group grow.

Tatum also endorsed the team’s pre-deadline move for Nikola Vucevic.

“Vuc is a hell of a player,” Tatum said. “I’ve competed against him for the last eight years. I’m excited about the things he brings to this team and the different dynamic.”

Pacers

Ivica Zubac from the corner is officially a conversation.

The new Pacers center has made just one three-pointer in his NBA career, but Zubac said he and head coach Rick Carlisle have already discussed expanding his range.

“I always thought I could shoot that shot,” Zubac said, via Dustin Dopirak of the Indianapolis Star. “I didn’t get a lot of chances with the Clippers, but I always worked on it. If that’s what they want me to do, I have the rest of the season and the whole summer to work on it and be ready for next year.”

Pistons

Opportunity knocked for Pistons two-way big man Tolu Smith.

With Isaiah Stewart and Jalen Duren suspended, Smith saw his first action since January 10.

“He’s an elite defensive rebounder, paint protector, pick-and-roll guy,” coach J.B. Bickerstaff said, via Omari Sankofa II of the Detroit Free-Press. “He’ll be just fine with the tools that he has.”

Smith finished with three points, three rebounds, and two assists in 15 minutes in Detroit’s win over Toronto. Not loud. But noticed.