Jayson Tatum’s (Nearly) Triumphant Return

A valiant effort, a lamentable conclusion

In retrospect, it might have been better for everyone involved if Jayson Tatum didn’t come back this season. While his expedited return from Achilles tendon surgery was equal parts admirable and inspiring, Tatum rarely gave the impression that he felt truly comfortable being back on the court.

Why would he? Coming back from a devastating injury on an accelerated timetable was an incredible accomplishment that speaks to his work ethic and professionalism. In a normal year, no one would have expected him to be the Jayson Tatum of old. Yet, the 2025-26 Celtics were anything but normal.

Rather than dive to the bottom of the standings without Tatum around to carry the load, the Celtics inexplicably thrived without their franchise player, winning 56 games and securing the second seed in the East. This shocking plot twist cast Tatum’s return in a whole new light. He wasn’t just coming back for his own personal vindication. He was coming back to help a team he hadn’t been a part of contend for a championship.