Jayson Tatum Edges Closer To Return As Bill Simmons Predicts Debut Timeline
The Ringer’s Bill Simmons provided a fresh prediction on Jayson Tatum’s return from a torn Achilles, now pegging March 1 as the most likely date for the Boston Celtics star to make his 2025-26 season debut.
The prominent analyst and podcaster adjusted his earlier projection Monday, moving it up from the first week of March.
“I had been hearing first week of March for a while… my money would be on March 1st now for him,” Simmons said.
Tatum has made significant strides in his rehabilitation since the injury occurred in May 2025 during the playoffs. He has participated in full 5-on-5 scrimmages with the Maine Celtics and consistently reported feeling great with no lingering issues.
The Celtics currently sit at 35-19 and hold the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference, powered largely by Jaylen Brown’s exceptional play. Brown has posted career highs in points, rebounds and assists while leading the team in Tatum’s absence.
Brad Stevens and the Boston front office have maintained a deliberate pace throughout Tatum’s rehab, focusing on long-term health rather than rushing back. A March 1 return — potentially against the Philadelphia 76ers — would represent about nine and a half months of recovery and allow time for Tatum to reintegrate before the stretch run.
The team has proven it can win without its two-time All-NBA forward, but his presence would elevate an already strong roster that includes Derrick White, Payton Pritchard and solid depth pieces.