Celtics’ Jayson Tatum Tells ESPN He Might Not Return This Season

There’s been so much buzz surrounding a potential Jayson Tatum return this season, that so many fans and analysts had assumed JT’s comeback was imminent.

That might not be the case. According to multiple reports (and now Tatum himself), the Boston Celtics superstar is re-evaluating his situation and might end up sitting out the rest of the 2025-26 season.

NBA on Prime’s Chris Haynes was the first to reveal news on Wednesday that Tatum is thinking about sitting out.

Sources: Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum (Achilles recovery) is re-evaluating his situation and is now considering sitting out the entire 2025-26 season. Final decision has yet to be determined. pic.twitter.com/Z8CcVjFSIr

— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) January 29, 2026

An full ESPN report arrived later, with Ramona Shelburne reporting that Tatum told ESPN that he has a “lot to think about” when it comes to a return, and that he hasn’t made a decision yet.

In the 2024-25 season, Tatum delivered another strong campaign, averaging 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and a career-high 6.0 assists per game across 72 contests. He earned his sixth All-Star selection, finishing fourth in MVP voting while helping Boston maintain contender status.

All Star forward Jayson Tatum told ESPN on Wednesday night that he hasn't made a decision about whether he will return from a torn Achilles tendon this season because he "wants to get it right the first time, so it's just a lot to think about." H/t to @ChrisBHaynes who cited…

— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) January 29, 2026

Tatum has established himself as one of the league’s premier forwards over his eight seasons. From his debut year, when he earned All-Rookie First Team honors, Tatum quickly developed into a consistent scoring threat and versatile contributor.

He earned his first All-Star nod in 2020 and has since appeared in six consecutive All-Star Games through 2025, including winning All-Star Game MVP in 2023. Tatum secured All-NBA recognition multiple times, with four First Team selections from 2022 to 2025 and one Third Team in 2020. His peak came in leading the Celtics to the 2024 NBA championship, where he played a pivotal role in securing the franchise’s 18th title.

Tragically, during the 2025 playoffs, Tatum suffered a torn right Achilles tendon in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the New York Knicks, requiring surgery and sidelining him indefinitely.

Through his career, Tatum has averaged 23.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, solidifying his status as a franchise cornerstone and one of the all-time great Celtics despite the recent misfortune.