Jayson Tatum Nears Return with On-Court Session During Celtics Shootaround
Celtics forward Jayson Tatum has made notable strides in his recovery from an Achilles injury sustained last May. Recently, he participated in an on-court workout during a Celtics shootaround, giving fans a glimpse of his progress.
On-Court Session Highlights Tatum’s Progress
On Monday afternoon, Tatum showcased his skills at Seaholm High School in Birmingham, Michigan. His session lasted for one hour and included a variety of drills that demonstrated his shooting, passing, and dribbling capabilities.
- Drills included:
- Light shooting practice
- Change-of-direction dribbling
- Behind-the-back passes
- Pull-up jumpers
- Drives to the rim
Accompanied by assistant coaches and athletic trainer Nick Sang, Tatum even managed a few dunks, signaling his improving condition. Although there were no visible signs of limitation, his workout was still a step below full game action.
Teammate Comments on Tatum’s Recovery
Although Tatum did not take questions, teammate Derrick White expressed his excitement about Tatum’s progress. “He’s been working hard,” White noted, adding that Tatum’s increased visibility and ability to move is a positive sign for the team.
White emphasized that Tatum is eager to return to play. “He doesn’t want to watch. He wants to get out there,” White remarked. However, team officials have not released a timeline for Tatum’s return, stating that he must still meet certain strength training benchmarks.
Celtics’ Performance in Tatum’s Absence
Despite Tatum’s absence, the Celtics have been performing exceptionally well. They recorded a 132-106 victory over the Hawks, featuring a remarkable 52-point second period, matching the second-highest scoring quarter in franchise history. As of now, the Celtics hold the second-ranked offense in the NBA, averaging 121.6 points per 100 possessions.
Tatum’s imminent return could further strengthen the team’s performance, given his status as one of the league’s top scorers. Following his on-court session, he signed a wall in the gym, marking a moment of progression in his recovery journey.
As Tatum continues to work towards his comeback, fans and teammates alike remain hopeful for his return to the court.
