So much about Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury is unorthodox.
Tatum opted for immediate surgery, which was expected to shorten his recovery time. Rumors have flown around that he could return during this season as a result. At one point, Tatum himself said he could potentially return in the 50-60 game mark. But now he’s seemingly throwing cold water on that assertion.
Assuming this report is true, it brings up some interesting points. If Tatum is re-evaluating his situation and considering sitting out, that means he was planning on a return — suggesting that he was, at least physically, able to return.
It also makes me wonder what has changed. Boston is surging to the top of the East, and with the Thunder stumbling recently, this season feels wide open. Looking at the landscape of the East, only the Pistons have truly passed the muster of a contender so far, and it would be quite the jump. So it’s safe to rule out team play being the issue here.
Perhaps things just haven’t felt right during his on-court workouts. There’s still a ramp-up period to account for atrophied muscle, and it’s possible that Tatum just isn’t feeling like himself, even if the Achilles is healing well. As the stretch run of the season heats up, we’re sure to hear more about this.
Don’t give up hope just yet, Celtics fans; Jayson Tatum could be back on the floor before you know it.
