Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum will not take the court against the Memphis Grizzlies as he continues to recover from a ruptured Achilles tendon suffered during the 2025 NBA playoffs. The 27-year-old forward remains optimistic about his recovery, but team officials have confirmed that the organization will prioritize his long-term health over rushing him back during preseason play.
According to Celtics president Brad Stevens, Tatum is “progressing well” in rehabilitation but will not return until he is “fully ready.” This update reflects the team’s cautious strategy in handling their franchise cornerstone’s recovery process.
Jayson Tatum’s Recovery Progress and Status Update
Tatum sustained the Achilles injury in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks last May. Since then, he has undergone extensive rehabilitation and physiotherapy, with sources close to the Celtics describing the process as “tedious but encouraging.”
Despite the slow pace, Tatum’s spirits remain high. Speaking to local reporters last week, he said he feels “amazing” and that the recovery has strengthened his mental focus and commitment. His teammate Jaylen Brown praised his dedication, calling his progress “superhuman.”
Stevens emphasized that Tatum’s return will not be rushed, noting that the medical staff has established specific benchmarks he must meet before rejoining full practice sessions. The team expects that he could return later in the 2025–2026 season if recovery continues as planned.
Impact on the Boston Celtics Ahead of the Grizzlies Matchup
Without Tatum, the Celtics will depend heavily on Jaylen Brown and offseason additions to carry the offensive load against the Grizzlies. The absence of their All-NBA forward gives head coach Joe Mazzulla an opportunity to evaluate lineup combinations and player chemistry in the preseason.
New signings and role players will also get more minutes, allowing Boston to assess its depth before the regular season begins. Though the matchup at FedExForum will miss some star power, it offers younger players a valuable platform to prove themselves.
As for the Grizzlies, they too will be without key contributors due to lingering injuries, making this contest more of a testing ground than a full-strength preview of what’s to come in the 2025–26 campaign.
What This Means for Tatum’s Comeback and Celtics’ Title Hopes
Tatum’s recovery timeline will play a major role in shaping the Celtics’ championship outlook. The organization views him as their centerpiece, and his return will likely determine how competitive they remain in the Eastern Conference. Until then, Boston aims to maintain consistency through collective effort and strong defensive play.
Medical experts typically estimate that full recovery from an Achilles rupture can take anywhere from 9 to 12 months. With that timeline, Tatum could return before the All-Star break if his rehabilitation stays on schedule. The Celtics have reinforced their medical and conditioning staff to ensure his comeback is both safe and successful.
In the meantime, fans remain hopeful. While Jayson Tatum won’t play against the Memphis Grizzlies, his recovery progress signals positive momentum toward a highly anticipated return later in the season.
FYI (keeping you in the loop)-
Q1: Will Jayson Tatum play against the Memphis Grizzlies?
No. The Celtics have confirmed Tatum will sit out the game as he continues recovering from his Achilles injury.
Q2: What injury is Jayson Tatum recovering from?
Tatum suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon during the 2025 NBA playoffs against the New York Knicks.
Q3: When is Jayson Tatum expected to return?
The Celtics have not provided an exact date, but reports suggest he could return later in the 2025–2026 NBA season.
Q4: How has Jayson Tatum’s rehabilitation been described?
Team officials describe his rehab as “tedious but encouraging,” with Tatum reportedly feeling “amazing.”
Q5: Who will step up for the Celtics in Tatum’s absence?
Jaylen Brown and the team’s new roster additions will play key roles in filling the gap during preseason games.
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