Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum remains in high spirits despite Achilles injury that ended his playoff run and could sideline him through the 2025–26 season.
Speaking with CLNS Media, Phoenix Suns wing Torrey Craig shared details about a recent visit with the All-NBA forward. Craig noted that Tatum, now four weeks into his recovery, appeared mentally strong and upbeat.
“Just to see him in good spirits — see him smiling, laughing, joking around — and just, you know, just have normal conversation,” Craig told CLNS, via HoopsHype. “Talk about the offseason, what I’m up to, and uh, yeah, I just look forward to his recovery, the progress he’s making. And it’s always just good seeing him in good spirits.”
Tatum ruptured his Achilles tendon late in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the New York Knicks on May 12. The injury occurred during a loose-ball dive with under three minutes remaining in the fourth quarter at Madison Square Garden.
He underwent surgery the following day and has since been ruled out indefinitely.
The six-time All-NBA selection was instrumental in Boston’s 61-win campaign, averaging 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 6.0 assists across 72 regular season games. His postseason production increased to 28.1 points and 11.5 boards per contest.
Tatum led the Celtics past the Orlando Magic in the first round with three consecutive 35-point performances, including a perfect 11-for-11 showing at the free-throw line in Game 5.
In Game 4 against New York, Tatum dropped 42 points with eight rebounds and four steals before sustaining the injury.
While the Celtics were eliminated in six games, Tatum’s injury overshadowed the series outcome. The franchise signed him to a five-year, $314 million supermax extension last July — the richest contract in NBA history.
Tatum’s absence leaves a significant gap for Boston heading into the 2025–26 season.
The 27-year-old is expected to continue rehabilitation through the remainder of 2025. The team has not announced a timeline for his return.
