Jayson Tatum’s Achilles tear was the first set of heartbreak for the Boston Celtics in 2025. Combined with an underwhelming playoff exit and multiple trades, the Celtics had an obstacle-filled campaign ahead of them.
And after a disappointing 0-3 start to the season, the team and fans can’t help but miss Tatum even more so. Of course, Tatum himself is devastated about the situation.
Boston Celtics’ Jayson Tatum Shares Heartbreaking Message About Achilles Injury
While Jaylen Brown is doing his best to keep his team afloat, they’re clearly missing Tatum’s presence on the floor.
The six-time NBA All-Star has been — who can only support his team from behind the scenes — is well aware of the gap in their performance. The most successful franchise in the league with 18 titles, Tatum was responsible for their last triumph in 2024.
And while they couldn’t repeat their title in 2025, one could certainly bank on Tatum making a run for their 19th title in 2026.
In a recent clip from an NBA Cares event at the Chinatown YMCA, Tatum spoke about his injury, explaining how tough it is to sit on the sidelines and watch.
“Not being able to be out there with the team is already tough enough. But still traveling and being with them during meetings and games and practices and shootarounds — trying to feel as much a part of the team as I can — it really helps my mental out a lot,” Tatum explained.
The 27-year-old has been traveling with the team, which provides some solace while he is unable to play. That being said, Tatum can certainly support his team from the bench.
A veteran of eight years, Tatum has earned his place as a leader in Boston. The championship further solidified his position with the Celtics, with younger players looking at him for guidance and advice.
However, fans remain skeptical of the team’s 2025-26 season, wondering if they’ll even secure a place in the play-in tournament.
Tatum Has Been Working Hard to Make His Comeback
During the same event, Tatum spoke about his injury and how hard he’s working to make a comeback. After all, bouncing back from an Achilles injury isn’t easy.
“I’ve been working my bu** off for the last 24 weeks now, just trying to get healthy and trying to get 100% and it’s just something that motivates me. Every day I go to rehab and workout and I’m on the court,” Tatum explained. “It’s something I can get to like a goal, you know, challenging myself every day.”
Having said that, Tatum is expected to make his return in 2026, back in time for the playoffs.
Currently at a 2-3 win-loss record, the Celtics are ranked 10th in the Eastern Conference.
