Jayson Tatum Sidelined for Months with Achilles Injury, Celtics Face Uncertain Season
Boston, MA — August 18, 2025
The Boston Celtics’ championship aspirations took a major hit today as the team confirmed that All-Star forward Jayson Tatum will be sidelined for several months due to a torn Achilles tendon, suffered during an offseason workout in Los Angeles.
Tatum, 27, has been the cornerstone of Boston’s success in recent years, leading the team to the NBA Finals in 2024 and earning All-NBA First Team honors last season. His absence leaves a massive void in both leadership and scoring, and significantly lowers expectations for the Celtics heading into the 2025–26 campaign.
A Devastating Blow
Team doctors estimate Tatum will miss at least 6–8 months, with a possible return late in the regular season or during the playoffs—if the Celtics can stay afloat without him.
“This is obviously a tough moment for Jayson and for our organization,” said Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens. “We’re going to support him through every step of his recovery, but we also know we have to regroup and find ways to compete.”
Roster Scramble
The injury has forced Boston to rethink its rotation. With Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis no longer on the roster, and Al Horford contemplating retirement, the team is leaning heavily on Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and newly acquired guard Anfernee Simons to carry the load.
Veteran forward Chris Boucher was signed to bolster the frontcourt, while young players like RJ Luis Jr. and Max Shulga may see increased minutes as the Celtics look to develop talent during Tatum’s absence.
Reactions from Around the League
Former Celtics player and broadcaster Brian Scalabrine weighed in on the injury during a local radio appearance:
“Achilles injuries are no joke. Even if Tatum comes back late in the season, it’s going to take time for him to get back to MVP form. The Celtics need to be smart and not rush him.”
Season Outlook
With Tatum out, oddsmakers have dropped Boston’s title odds from +450 to +1200, placing them behind teams like the Denver Nuggets, Milwaukee Bucks, and Phoenix Suns.
Head coach Joe Mazzulla remains optimistic:
“We’ve faced adversity before. This team has heart, and we’ll find a way to compete every night.”
