Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum. Matt Blewett-Imagn Images

Jayson Tatum takes significant step toward returning

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Feb 25, 2026 5:17 PM ET

The chances of Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum playing this season appear to be on the rise.

ESPN’s Shams Charania revealed on “NBA Today” Wednesday that Tatum has been a “full go” in five-on-five scrimmages as he continues to rehab from his torn Achilles. While Charania did not give any solid return date for Tatum, the implication is that he has a real chance to play soon.

The buzz around Tatum has been positive for a while, even though the Celtics are being quite tight-lipped about his status and progress.

This latest report will give Celtics fans even more encouragement that Tatum’s return might be in the cards.

Shams was on NBA Today to give his latest report on Jayson Tatum pic.twitter.com/kPuUsXHR18
— Ian Inangelo (@iinangelo) February 25, 2026

Part of the reason Tatum might have any incentive to return at all is how well the Celtics have done despite his absence. They enter play Wednesday at 38-19, good enough for second in the Eastern Conference. The team was expected to struggle this season without Tatum, but they suddenly look capable of a deep playoff run, even without him.

The NBA’s television schedule has led some to wonder if the Celtics — or even the league — might have a specific return date in mind for the six-time All-Star to make his season debut.

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

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