Celtics Star Targeted for Friday’s Game

Boston Celtics fans are eagerly awaiting the return of Jayson Tatum and a recent prediction suggests that day may be fast approaching. Prominent sports journalist Bill Simmons believes Tatum will make his season debut this Friday at TD Garden against the Dallas Mavericks.

“It feels like it’s gonna be Friday. Dallas.”

Bill Simmons, The Bill Simmons Podcast

Simmons further stated, All signs point to Friday against Dallas. during a recent podcast episode.

Long Road to Recovery

Tatum suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks on May 12, 2025. He underwent surgery the following day, beginning a lengthy rehabilitation process that has kept him sidelined throughout the 2025-26 NBA season.

Progress has been steady. In February 2026, Tatum transitioned to five-on-five workouts with trainers, a significant milestone nine months post-surgery. He also practiced with the Celtics’ G League affiliate, the Maine Celtics, before returning to the main team.

Towards the finish of February, Tatum was reportedly participating fully in training matches, focusing on building calf strength and regaining mental confidence.

Recent Intensification of Training

Recent reports indicate Tatum has been training at maximum intensity in five-on-five sessions for over a week, fueling speculation about a potential return in March. Though, the Celtics have not yet announced a firm date.

FAQ

• When is Jayson Tatum expected to return? Bill Simmons predicts Tatum will return this Friday against the Dallas Mavericks.
• What injury did Tatum suffer? Tatum suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon in May 2025.
• Has Tatum been cleared to play? As of today, March 3, 2026, Tatum has not been officially cleared to play.