In a major blow to the Boston Celtics and their fans, All-Star forward Jayson Tatum has undergone surgery to repair a torn Achilles tendon, the team confirmed early Saturday morning. The procedure was successful, but the 27-year-old faces a lengthy and uncertain road to recovery, likely sidelining him for the entirety of the 2025–26 NBA season.
The injury reportedly occurred during an off-season workout earlier this week. According to sources close to the organization, Tatum went down during a non-contact drill and was immediately evaluated by team medical staff. Subsequent imaging confirmed the severity of the injury.
“Jayson underwent surgery to repair a torn Achilles tendon in his right leg,” the Celtics announced in an official statement. “The surgery was performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache in Los Angeles. Tatum is expected to make a full recovery, but he will be out indefinitely and will not participate in the upcoming season.”
Tatum’s injury marks a devastating development for a Celtics team that was widely expected to contend for another NBA title following their dominant 2024–25 campaign. As one of the league’s premier scorers and a franchise cornerstone, Tatum averaged 27.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 4.6 assists last season, earning his fifth consecutive All-NBA First Team selection.
The Celtics, who have built their roster around Tatum and fellow star Jaylen Brown, now face a daunting task of reshuffling their lineup and expectations. Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens expressed confidence in the team’s resilience but acknowledged the gravity of the situation.
“This is heartbreaking news for Jayson and for all of us,” Stevens said. “He’s the kind of player and person who defines what it means to be a Celtic. We’ll support him every step of the way and do everything we can to help him return stronger than ever.”
Achilles injuries are among the most serious in professional sports, often requiring 9–12 months of rehabilitation. Notable players such as Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson have successfully returned from similar setbacks, though the journey is both physically and mentally demanding.
NBA players, coaches, and fans across the league took to social media to express support for Tatum, with hashtags like #PrayForTatum and #JTStrong trending throughout the day.
As the Celtics regroup and look toward the 2025–26 season without their leader, the focus now shifts to Tatum’s recovery and the uncertain future of Boston’s championship window.
More updates will follow as additional informatio
n becomes available.
