In his season debut after recovering from a torn Achilles tendon, Jayson Tatum nearly posted a triple-double with 15 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists, leading the Boston Celtics to a 120-100 win over the Dallas Mavericks on March 6, 2026.
Less than 300 days after tearing his right Achilles tendon in last May's playoffs—a recovery tracked closely in prior coverage—Jayson Tatum made a triumphant return in the Boston Celtics' dominant 120-100 victory over the Dallas Mavericks at TD Garden.
Listed as questionable pre-game, Tatum played 27 minutes, finishing with 15 points (on 6-of-12 shooting), 12 rebounds, seven assists, and a plus-20 plus/minus. Overcoming early rust like an air-balled three and missed dunk, he dazzled with a put-back dunk, step-back three, lob to Neemias Queta, and feed to Sam Hauser for a corner three, energizing the crowd.
"It was surreal," Tatum said postgame. "It was an emotional day. It's been a long journey... this is a huge step."
Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla added: "You saw a guy at his most vulnerable state, and you're seeing that journey back... it's time to get back to work."
Boston's depth shone through, maintaining their status as the East's No. 2 seed with top offensive and net ratings, bolstered now by Tatum alongside Jaylen Brown's MVP-caliber play.