Jayson Tatum expects to play back-to-back days for Celtics in 2026-27 coming off Achilles tear

Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum announced that he expects to play in back-to-back games during the 2026-27 NBA season. Nearly 17 months after rupturing his right Achilles tendon in May 2025, Tatum confirmed his physical readiness during an interview with 98.5 The Sports Hub. The Celtics face their first back-to-back set early in the regular season, hosting the Chicago Bulls and Brooklyn Nets on October 26 and 27.

Tatum emphasized that he focused heavily on strength and conditioning this offseason after missing Game 7 of the first-round playoffs against the Philadelphia 76ers due to knee discomfort. He also noted that he is in a much better headspace mentally compared to last year. Additionally, Tatum addressed adjusting to a restructured roster following Jaylen Brown's departure, expressing excitement about integrating new teammates Mike Conley, Paul George, and Mitchell Robinson.