Per NBA insider Chris Hayes, Tatum is considering whether he should sit out the remainder of the 2025-26 season, but a final decision has not been made. In a story ESPN published early Wednesday morning, Tatum confirmed that he hasn’t made a decision about his return and said he ‘wants to get it right the first time, so it’s just a lot to think about.’
The NBA champion tore his right Achilles tendon during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks on May 12, 2025.
The six-time All-Star was expected to try to return this season for Boston, especially with the Celtics surprising, currently sitting third in the Eastern Conference. Haynes indicated that Tatum was prepping for a return and was potentially close to getting back on the court, but the situation has changed.
Tatum, per ESPN, is ‘progressing well in his rehabilitation and is feeling stronger every week, but he’s waiting to make a decision because of the severity of the injury.’
Tatum signed a contract extension with the Celtics on July 6, 2024.
He’s averaged 23.6 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game over 585 career games played.
This story has been updated with new information.