How Celtics' Jayson Tatum Feels One Month Into Return
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The way he's playing, it's easy to forget that Jayson Tatum is less than a year removed from tearing his Achilles.
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Tatum has exceeded most expectations since returning from the significant injury on March 6. The All-NBA star is averaging 21.6 points, 9.8 rebounds and 5.1 assists in 15 games, establishing Boston as a top contender to win the Larry O'Brien Trophy.
An expedited return has yet to hinder Tatum. The 28-year-old delivered an update that should delight Celtics fans.
"I think I'm in a good spot," Tatum told reporters before Thursday's game against the New York Knicks, via CLNS Media. "I think I honestly feel better than I thought I would coming back, the way I'm progressing and recovering each game. So, that's positive."
The Celtics stayed in contention as Tatum recovered, bolstering his desire to return for another playoff push.
"The success that they've had this year obviously is a motivating factor ... So yeah, that was a big part of it," Tatum said. "Not taking opportunity for granted, coming back to a team that has a chance to compete for a championship."
Tatum hasn't shown nearly as much rust as anticipated. Although his 41.8 field-goal percentage represents a personal low, he's shown no hesitancy to attack the paint and compete on both ends of the court.
Boston's returning star has tallied at least 23 points in each of his last six games, and he played a season-high 39 minutes in Tuesday's win over the Charlotte Hornets. At this rate, Tatum may enter the postseason close to peak form.
Tatum returns to Madison Square Garden, where he tore his Achilles last May, to face the Knicks on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. ET.
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