Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Tatum Faces Anxious Return to MSG as Celtics Seek No. 2 Seed

4/9/2026

37 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Jayson Tatum will return to Madison Square Garden on Thursday as the Celtics push to clinch the No. 2 seed.
He said revisiting the site of his Achilles injury makes him anxious and not thrilled to play there again.
Since returning, he averages 21.6 points and 9.8 rebounds per game.
Teammate Jaylen Brown notes Tatum has improved mentally and physically, with team support as they face the challenge.

History

Historical Context

Kevin Durant's Achilles injury during the 2019 NBA Finals marked a pivotal moment in sports medicine, prompting teams like the Boston Celtics to enhance player health management. This shift emphasizes mental and physical recovery, as seen in Jayson Tatum's return to Madison Square Garden amid his own Achilles concerns. The long-term impact of such injuries continues to reshape training protocols across the league.

1 of 2

Story summary

Jayson Tatum will return to Madison Square Garden on Thursday as the Celtics push to clinch the No. 2 seed.
He said revisiting the site of his Achilles injury makes him anxious and not thrilled to play there again.
Since returning, he averages 21.6 points and 9.8 rebounds per game.
Teammate Jaylen Brown notes Tatum has improved mentally and physically, with team support as they face the challenge.

1 / 2