Former Boston Celtics guard Isaiah Thomas offered his perspective on Jayson Tatum’s recovery during the Point Game podcast.
“Personally, I don’t feel like he should come back… being expected to be that same person right away, it’s like you’re in a lose-lose situation,” Thomas said, via HoopsHype, referencing his own experiences with injuries.
Thomas noted the mental and emotional pressures a returning star faces. “Like you come back and say you play okay and you guys don’t win. Who are they blaming? They’re blaming you. That’s just unnecessary pressure put on yourself,” he said.
He emphasized the severity of Tatum’s injury. “Then it’s an Achilles tear… let’s not rush this back. Yes, they’ve done probably the right steps, and yes, he’s probably getting healthy and he feels like he’s good enough to play for sure,” Thomas added.
Tatum, a six-time All-Star, provided an update earlier this week, saying, “I’m feeling good,” but underscored that no return date is set as he continues structured rehab. He has been sidelined for 39 weeks following an Achilles injury and recently participated in G League practice with Maine, describing it as an important step.
“Had a jersey on… just kind of felt good to be a part of a team and practice and go through reps,” Tatum said, highlighting the gradual nature of his reintegration.
Boston sits third in the Eastern Conference at 34-19 despite Tatum’s absence, relying heavily on Jaylen Brown’s 29.4 points per game and contributions from Derrick White and Payton Pritchard.
Tatum acknowledged the challenge of rejoining a team midseason. “It might look different… but a lot of high IQ guys out there… we professionals would figure it out,” he said, praising the team’s additions, including veteran center Nikola Vucevic. “V is a hell of a player… excited about the things that he brings to this team and different dynamic.”
He also described observing games from the bench to gain a coaching perspective. “I sit next to the coaches during all the games so I kind of hear their commentary and see it through the lens of a coach,” Tatum said.
Despite progress, Tatum continues to prioritize health over a return date. “I’m still… trying to figure it out… not saying that I’m coming back or I’m not. It’s all about being 100% healthy,” he said.
Thomas’ advice underscores the caution many in the league feel regarding a midseason comeback. “Being young… your pride and your ego… feeling like you’re missing out on things,” he said, reinforces that rushing back could have lasting consequences.
