Jayson Tatum revealed Saturday he recently participated in a 5-on-5 workout with Boston Celtics teammates, marking a notable milestone in his recovery from a torn Achilles. However, Tatum said he has not set a return date and has not ruled out missing the remainder of the season.
“There was a little 5-on-5 during the workout,” Tatum said. “Just getting acclimated more and doing limited things with some of the guys out there. But it’s all a part of the rehab. We’re just going with the plan.”
Photos posted on the Celtics’ official social media accounts showed Tatum driving against center Luka Garza during what appeared to be a scrimmage, with both the game clock and shot clock visible and running.
Tatum has not returned to full NBA-level practice and said “nothing is set in stone” regarding that next step. He recently participated in portions of a practice session with the Maine Celtics, Boston’s G League affiliate.
Joe Mazzulla said Tatum’s progression depends entirely on hitting rehabilitation benchmarks.
“It’s just trusting all those things and taking it step by step,” Mazzulla said.
Despite Tatum’s absence, Boston owns a 37-19 record after beating the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday and remains an Eastern Conference contender. Tatum tore his Achilles in May during the second round of the playoffs.
“The injury that I had, it’s a long journey,” Tatum said. “I know what 100 percent feels like. And if and when that time comes, I’ll be ready.”