Jayson Tatum’s future shakes Boston as he faces his most uncertain season

Losing Jayson Tatum was a gut punch for the Boston Celtics. Their franchise centerpiece exited in the second round of the playoffs against the New York Knicks, and a brutal diagnosis confirmed a torn Achilles tendon. It looked like Tatum would miss the entire 2025–26 season. Now, rumors of a possible spring return have fans and analysts holding their breath.

Among those raising concern is Sirius XM Radio commentator Justin Termine. He didn’t hold back. According to him, Jayson Tatum returning this season—even if hopeful—isn’t the smartest move for Boston. Termine suggests the Celtics should prioritize Tatum’s full recovery and think long-term.

A team without its star

As noted by The Sports Rush, Termine sees little logic in rushing Jayson Tatum back into action. “It makes no sense to risk Jayson Tatum in a season with a limited roster,” he argued. While Jaylen Brown and Derrick White remain valuable pieces, few experts believe they have what it takes to lead Boston deep without its top star. Even if Tatum returned at full strength, Termine doubts the Celtics would be championship contenders.

“If they still had last year’s team, then it probably would be worth trying to get Tatum back next season”@TermineRadio shares his thoughts with @JumpShot8 on reports that Jayson Tatum could return next season after tearing his Achilles in the playoffs. pic.twitter.com/uYI1y0Lx8b

— SiriusXM NBA Radio (@SiriusXMNBA) August 6, 2025

And this isn’t just a health issue—it’s a roster puzzle. Last season, Boston was deep, balanced, and dangerous. But moves during the summer have left questions hanging. Can the team rebuild quickly enough to compete again in 2026? With Jayson Tatum fully healed and potential upgrades via the draft or free agency, that future feels far more promising.

A long journey ahead

Jayson Tatum’s Achilles recovery won’t be overnight. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, athletes usually need 9 to 12 months to return from an Achilles tear. It’s a long road that demands serious patience. Tatum, now 27, sits right at the prime of his career—which is exactly why rushing him back too soon could risk not just his short-term form, but his long-term trajectory in the league.

For Celtics fans, accepting that the 2025–26 season might be transitional isn’t easy. But in a sport where a single misstep can set a franchise back years, protecting Tatum could be the smartest long game. When healthy, Jayson Tatum can shift the course of an entire season. So the big question remains: is it worth risking him for a year without clear rewards? Termine is certain it’s not. And maybe, just maybe, Boston should be too.