Celtics’ Joe Mazzula gives a 9-word answer to a recurring question about Jayson Tatum’s injury
The Boston Celtics are underway this season and as the second half of the season gets underway, they are in second place in the Eastern Conference behind the Detroit Pistons.
The The Celtics won the first game after the All-Star break as they secured a 121-110 road victory over the Golden State Warriors. The Celtics are 36-19 and have been on a hot streak recently, winning 8 of their last 10 games. They are on a 4-game road trip and that road trip continues Sunday with a nationally televised game against their historic rival, the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Celtics success this season was something of a surprise as they played without a superstar Jayson Tatum. He tore his Achilles in last year’s playoffs against the New York Knicks. They also parted ways with several key veterans including Jrue Holiday, Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis. As a result, most expected the Celtics to flop in the Eastern Conference.
However, the Celtics got a brilliant game and a lead Jailen Brownand he got excellent support from Peyton Pritchard and Derrick White. Pritchard is averaging 29.3 points and 7.0 rebounds per game. Pritchard is averaging 17.4 points and 5.4 assists per game, while White is averaging 17.1 points and 5.6 assists per night.
Tatum is recovering strongly from his injury and there have been several stories hinting at his possible return later this year. If that happens, he could participate in the playoffs.
Mazzulla declined to offer any meaningful information and would not provide an update. “I don’t operate on feeling,” Mazzulla said. “I live by principle.”
Despite the coach not being able to shed light on Tatum’s status, Celtics watchers believe he will return if he is mentally ready to compete at the highest level.
2026-02-22 00:28:00
