The Boston Celtics could soon welcome back their biggest star. Superstar forward Jayson Tatum is expected to make his 202526 season debut Friday night when Boston hosts the Dallas Mavericks at TD Garden.Boston Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum is expected to make his 2025-26 NBA season debut against the Dallas Mavericks on Friday night at TD Garden, according to Shams Charania of ESPN.The potential return marks a remarkable recovery timeline. Tatum suffered a torn right Achilles tendon during Game four of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks less than ten months ago.Since then, the six-time All-Star has been working relentlessly to get back on the court. He underwent surgery less than 24 hours after the injury occurred at the Hospital for Special Surgery, where the procedure was performed by Dr. Martin OMalley.Now, sources say the Celtics believe he is ready to return, though the final decision will come shortly before tip-off.Tatum, whose return comes less than 10 months after tearing his right Achilles tendon in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks, has been described as ready to go,sources told ESPN. And he is expected to inform the Celtics of his final decision ahead of Fridays action.Boston has remained one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference despite Tatums absence. The Celtics currently sit near the top of the standings thanks largely to the play of Jaylen Brown, who has emerged as an MVP candidate while carrying a heavier offensive role.Related Article: JR Smith Sparks Debate Over Celtics LeadershipStrong contributions from players like Derrick White and Payton Pritchard have also helped keep Boston firmly in the title conversation.Head coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledged earlier this season that the teams approach had to evolve while navigating Tatums absence.I may have to coach completely differently than the year before, Mazzulla said earlier in the season. In years past, you had an older, more experienced roster, four or five All-Stars on the team together. So your process is different.READ MORE: Federal Judge Sets Trial Timeline in Chauncey Billups Case
