Nick Wright Thinks Jayson Tatum In Impossible Position Ahead Of Potential Celtics Return originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Boston Celtics have surprised many people by their success in 2025-26 without Jayson Tatum, and JT’s strong recovery from a torn Achilles could make an late-season return more complicated than expected, according to FOX Sports analyst Nick Wright.
Advertisement
On the latest episode of the What’s Wright? show, Wright broke down the situation, saying Tatum’s progress in rehab has placed the star forward in an “impossible position” regarding a comeback this season.
Tatum suffered the injury during the 2025 playoffs and has missed the entire 2025-26 campaign so far. Speaking to reporters after practice on February 21, the six-time All-Star made clear he has no firm return date and is simply sticking to the plan set by the medical staff and coaching group, with no external pressure applied.
Recent updates show Tatum has advanced to full participation in 5-on-5 scrimmages, marking a significant step. The Celtics, sitting at a strong record and boasting impressive depth, have leaned on Jaylen Brown, Derrick White and Payton Pritchard to maintain their position near the top of the East.
Advertisement
Wright’s take centers on the delicate balance now facing Tatum and Boston. With the team clicking on all cylinders and chemistry established in his absence, inserting a player of Tatum’s caliber — even at less than full strength initially — raises questions for Wright about minutes distribution, offensive flow and avoiding any setback. Tatum’s clear desire to feel completely ready before stepping back on the floor adds another layer.
Boston’s front office and coaching staff have repeatedly stressed patience, allowing the 27-year-old to dictate his own timeline. Whether that leads to a March or April debut remains uncertain, but the conversation around his potential integration has intensified.
In his most recent season (2024-25), Jayson Tatum delivered another standout campaign for the Celtics. He started all 72 regular-season games, averaging 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds and 6.0 assists while shooting 45.2% from the field and 34.3% from three-point range.
Tatum earned All-NBA First Team recognition and helped guide Boston to the playoffs yet again. His production remained elite until the injury, reaffirming his status as one of the league’s premier two-way wings and franchise cornerstones.
Advertisement
More NBA: Celtics’ Eastern Conference Rival Receives Unfortunate Injury News