Tatum, who has not counted out returning this season, decided to use his recovery to defy odds and set standards.

“No pressure,” Tatum said Monday at the Celtics’ media day. “No pressure to return back any sooner than when I’m 100% healthy. No pressure from (Celtics president of basketball operations) Brad (Stevens), (coach) Joe (Mazzulla), the team, the organization. The most important thing is that I’m 100% recovered and healthy whenever I do come back.”

The Boston Celtics may trade one of their two guards if the Houston Rockets offer up a worthwhile trade package.

Tatum suffered the injury in the closing minutes of Game 4 with the Knicks well on the their way to taking a 3-1 series lead. But Tatum believes that had he not suffered an Achilles tear, the Celtics could've staged a comeback to beat the Knicks.

Though the Celtics are not expected to do well in 2025-2026, Tatum has faith in Jaylen Brown, with whom he won the NBA championship last year. “JB is an All-NBA player, a Finals MVP, he’s won a championship. He’s one of the most talented guys in the NBA… he’s been in this position before,” Tatum said on First Take.

The Jordan brand is promoting a new sneaker for Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum. As the company sent a pair to Boston-based reporter, Noa Dalzell, the box had

The Boston Celtics star, who ruptured his Achilles tendon in the NBA playoffs in May, opens up to PEOPLE about his grueling recovery and family support: 'Hardest I've ever worked in my life'