Jayson Tatum

progresifjaya.co.id, JAKARTA – The Boston Celtics shot a season-high 66,7 percent (52 of 78) from the field in their 148-111 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Friday, February 27, 2026. Along with this record, there was also the encouraging news that their superstar, Jayson Tatum (JT), may be available to play in the next game against the Philadelphia 76ers at TD Garden in Boston on Sunday, March 1, 2026, US time.

The game against the 76ers was originally scheduled for earlier that day. However, the NBA moved the time slot to 8 p.m. local time. This has fueled speculation that Tatum may return.

The NBA requires the Boston Celtics to release an initial injury report by 5:00 p.m. on Saturday ahead of their home game against the 76ers on Sunday.

Jayson Tatum himself has been practicing with the Boston Celtics’ G League team for two weeks. However, he said he hasn’t decided whether he will return.

Jayson Tatum

“It doesn’t mean i’m going to be back or not. It’s just following the plan. So this is just the next step,” Tatum said.

“I don’t know the percentage. I just know i’m feeling a little better every day. I’m just trying to focus on that.”

Jayson Tatum has been sidelined for 41 weeks since suffering a torn right Achilles tendon in the final minutes of the Boston Celtics’ loss to the New York Knicks in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals in May 2025.

ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Tatum has progressed to full five-on-five scrimmages. This is a clear sign of a transition from rehabilitation to actual basketball preparation.

Jayson Tatum

“The most important thing right now is that he continues to put in the time, continues to improve his physical condition,” Charania said.

“There are two elements at play. First, he’s building strength in both calves after the Achilles tendon injury, and the biggest hurdle of all is getting to 100 percent mentally,” he added.

The Boston Celtics have indeed built something real without JT. Jaylen Brown is having a stellar season, averaging 29,2 points, 7 rebounds, and 4,9 assists, all career highs. Payton Pritchard and Derrick White are also shining.

The Boston Celtics haven’t been idle during Tatum’s absence. They’ve been winning. And this will certainly be an even stronger foundation when Tatum returns. (Bembo)