Jayson Tatum had Boston Celtics fans hoping for his on-court comeback when he practiced with their G League affiliate on Monday afternoon. However, the six-time NBA All-Star remains noncommittal about returning this season.
The Boston Celtics forward ruptured his Achilles tendon against the New York Knicks on May 12th, and he is entering the ninth month in his extensive recovery. Tatum recently admitted on the Pivot Podcast that he had doubts about whether he should push for a return later this campaign.
“I always say, I feel a little bit better today than I did yesterday — the physical, conditioning, trusting it, every day I feel a little bit better,” Tatum told Noa Dalzell of SB Nation. “More conditioning, more live things. Getting acclimated to playing 5-on-5 and contact.”
“I’m feeling good. It was good to be a part of practice yesterday with the Maine G-League guys. Today is 39 weeks, so it’s been a long journey. And, it’s just like the progression of rehab… It doesn’t mean I’m coming back or not,” he added.
Boston Celtics News: Jayson Tatum reflects on watching their games on the sidelines
Jayson Tatum admitted it is difficult not to be able to help his team on the court. However, the Boston Celtics star said that being on the bench helped him have a better perspective and appreciation of the game.
“You know how much I love this game. I love being out there. But I’ve also grown an appreciation for the game, for my teammates, and just guys around the league, sitting back and being able to watch guys take their next step, it’s been kind of cool to see,” Tatum explained. “I sit next to the coaches, hear their commentary, see it through the lens of the coach.”
“Over 39 weeks, you have a lot of time on your hands. You think about a lot of things. Just hyper aware of what’s going on. I think it would just stem from that,” he continued. “We’ve been one of the best teams all season. And we’ll continue being one of the best teams.”
