Overview

• Tatum said on ESPN and NBC that he has not ruled out playing this season, noting he rehabs six days a week and has a personal target in mind.
• Team voices and local radio reports say he has stayed in Boston and is exceeding rehab expectations, with coach Joe Mazzulla praising his focus and intensity.
• Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Martin O’Malley described unusually strong early calf strength and encouraging functional progress in Tatum’s recovery.
• Tatum has been in regular contact with Tyrese Haliburton, Damian Lillard and Dejounte Murray to compare recovery steps from similar Achilles injuries.
• Boston retooled its roster to navigate second-apron limits and plans to lean on Jaylen Brown, Derrick White and Anfernee Simons while Tatum rehabs.