The Boston Celtics faced a significant setback in their playoff journey when star player Jayson Tatum suffered a torn Achilles during a critical match against the New York Knicks. This injury not only ruled him out of game four but also sidelined him for the remainder of the playoff series and the entire 2025-26 season. Although Tatum has shown impressive recovery, speculation about his potential return in the spring of the upcoming season has emerged.
According to NBA insider Justin Termine, it may not be wise for Tatum to rush back to the court. During an appearance on Sirius XM Radio, Termine expressed concerns regarding the Celtics’ roster for the 2025-26 season, suggesting that risking Tatum’s health would be counterproductive. “It’s better to rest him completely, let him heal to 100%, and then come back in 2026-27 all guns blazing,” Termine stated.
He emphasized that the current lineup, which prominently features Jaylen Brown and Derrick White, lacks the depth to compete for a championship, even with a fully healthy Tatum. “That team’s not winning anything,” he remarked, highlighting the challenges the Celtics would face without a stronger supporting cast. Termine noted that if Tatum were to return and play at his usual level, the team would still struggle to make a meaningful impact in the playoffs.
The prospect of a rebuilding year may be difficult for Celtics fans to accept. With Tatum focused on recovery and the current roster lacking significant star power, the team may need to adopt a strategy that prioritizes future success over immediate results. If the Celtics continue without Tatum, they might find themselves in a position where they need to secure high draft picks to enhance their roster for the following season.
A fully recovered Tatum could rejoin a revamped Celtics squad in 2026, potentially revitalized with new talent. The aim would be to chase a second championship for Boston, a goal that remains within reach if the team can effectively navigate this difficult transitional period.
As the Celtics weigh their options, the emphasis remains on Tatum’s health and long-term performance. By allowing him to recover fully, the franchise ensures that when he does return, he can contribute at the highest level, ultimately benefiting both Tatum and the team as they strive for greater achievements in the future.
