Overview

• Tatum said on NBC and ESPN that he has not ruled out playing this season and emphasized he is targeting a full recovery.
• He noted he rehabs six days a week, while surgeon Dr. Martin O’Malley praised his early strength gains, including double heel raises within two months of surgery.
• Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla, via team insiders, lauded Tatum’s focus and daily presence at the facility throughout his rehab.
• Typical Achilles timelines span roughly six to 12 months, so any return would hinge on medical clearance and how competitive Boston is late in the season.
• Boston reshaped its roster under second-apron constraints, moving Kristaps Porziņģis and Jrue Holiday, with Jaylen Brown, Derrick White and Anfernee Simons expected to carry the load.