Jayson Tatum reports improved health and confidence for Celtics season

Jayson Tatum has reported feeling significantly more confident both mentally and physically as he enters his 10th NBA season with the Boston Celtics. Following a challenging previous season marked by an Achilles injury sustained against the New York Knicks in 2025, Tatum spent the offseason focusing on conditioning and regaining his basketball rhythm.

After returning to the lineup in March of last season, Tatum averaged 21.8 points and 10.0 rebounds over 16 games, though his shooting percentages were lower than his career norms. He noted that while he was able to be effective upon his initial return, he felt he was operating at approximately 80% capacity.

With the departure of Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers, Tatum now serves as the de facto leader of the Celtics. He has rejoined his teammates for training camp with no physical limitations, aiming to return to his dominant form.