Vic Grousbeck calms excitement over Jayson Tatum’s injury

The Boston Celtics they may have to continue life without their superstar forward for the entire 2025–26 season. Despite the recent optimism in the environment Jayson TatumRecovering from a torn Achilles tendon, team co-owner and deputy governor Grousbeck knows made it clear that the organization does not count on his return.

“We’re not ever going to ask him to come back. We’re assuming he’s not coming back. He’s not expected to be here this season,” Grousbeck said in an interview with VEEI.

Grousbeck’s comments followed the viral footage Tatum dunking during practice. The footage sparked speculation that the six-time All-Star could return early.

Tatum hasn’t ruled out a returnnoting that his progress depends on meeting physical benchmarks, not deadlines.

“Time is obviously important, but you have to hit certain benchmarks,” Tatum said in an interview earlier this fall. “The most important thing is all these tests of your strength, strength in your calf, strength in your leg.”

The Celtics have been without Jayson Tatum since last season

Tatum was injured in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks, ending what had been a strong postseason run. He averaged 31.3 points per game against Orlando and 25.0 against New York, including 42 points in his final playoff appearance.

Celtics insiders, including Jay King of the Athletics and Chris Forsberg of NBC Sports Boston, have suggested that Tatum could be physically ready by the start of 2026. However, both stressed that Boston needs to be cautious. Even if he is cleared, it would take time for Tatum to regain his rhythm and confidence after the first major injury of his career.

Boston enters the season looking drastically different from the championship team in 2024. The departures of Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford and Jrue Holiday have left new faces for critical roles. Without Tatum, the Celtics’ offensive identity will revolve around Jaylen Brown, Derrick White and Peyton Pritchard.

For now, the Celtics remain focused on the long haul. Whether or not Tatum plays again this season, his recovery and future remain central to Boston’s hopes of returning to championship contention.