NBA news: Jaylen Brown praises Jayson Tatum’s recovery as Celtics star nears return
Boston Celtics superstar Jaylen Brown conducted a pre-All-Star media conference on Sunday, February 15, where he offered an encouraging update on his longtime running mate, Jayson Tatum, who nears a return following a 10-month absence from a torn Achilles injury.
In this article, Sports News Blitz’s Ethan Pitts breaks down Brown’s comments and what Tatum’s progress could mean for Boston’s title push.
Brown encouraged by Tatum’s recovery progress
“He needs to, you know, take his time to mentally, spiritually and emotionally make sure everything feels right before making any decisions, but in terms of what I have seen, he looks pretty damn good,” Brown said.
The long-term absence of Tatum prompted many to believe this could be a retooling season for the Celtics while they await the return of their franchise cornerstone.
As the new number one option, Brown has responded by having the best campaign of his career - averaging 29 points per game, elevating Joe Mazzula’s side to second in the Eastern Conference with a 35-19 record.
The duo’s relationship has always been a focal point of discussion in the league. Before their championship success in 2024, many questioned whether Tatum and Brown could coexist to bring a championship to the city of Boston.
Their title run squashed this narrative, but questions are starting to emerge with Tatum coming off such a serious injury, and Brown performing at an MVP-calibre level.
Brown confident partnership will remain strong
When asked about how their partnership may work once Tatum returns to the starting five, Brown was quick to reference the history between the two.
“These conversations have been from since we got drafted, pretty much, so in any human relationship or in any type of team, there’s always going to be something you’ve got to work on or improve. But in terms of winning, me and him have done that to a high level for a very long time,” Brown highlighted.
Despite the Celtics’ success without Tatum, he remains one of the best players in the league in the prime years of his career, something Brown is aware of he aims to bring another Championship to Boston.
“I’m looking forward to that,” Brown said of Tatum’s upcoming return.
Tatum continues to practice with the Maine Celtics, whilst Brown and co look to continue their form before the recent All-Star break and finish the campaign in good spirits ahead of the NBA Playoffs.
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