The Boston Celtics are not expected to reduce Jayson Tatum’s workload entering the 2026-27 season, despite the star forward’s Achilles injury history. According to Jay King of The Athletic, the organization has already shown a willingness to rely heavily on Tatum after his return, making a significant reduction in minutes appear unlikely.
King projected Tatum to average 36 minutes per game, noting that Boston’s previous handling of its franchise player offers a clear indication of its plans. He wrote that, while many have wondered whether the Celtics would finally ease Tatum’s burden, “based on history, probably not.”
Tatum’s 2025-26 campaign was unusual from the start. After recovering from Achilles surgery, he appeared in only 16 regular-season games but still averaged 21.8 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in 32.6 minutes per contest. He shot 41.1% from the field, 32.9% from three-point range, and 82.3% from the free-throw line while quickly reclaiming his role as Boston’s offensive centerpiece.
According to King, the Celtics did not hesitate to increase Tatum’s workload once he returned. Just over one month after making his comeback, he logged 40 minutes in a regular-season game. During Boston’s first-round playoff series, he exceeded the 40-minute mark twice before tweaking his leg and ultimately missing Game 7, which the Celtics lost to the Philadelphia 76ers.
That playoff exit marked the end of a disappointing season for Boston. Despite finishing 56-26, winning the Atlantic Division, and securing the Eastern Conference’s No. 2 seed, the Celtics were eliminated in seven games by Philadelphia after holding home-court advantage.
The offseason brought sweeping changes designed to build more effectively around Tatum. Boston traded longtime co-star Jaylen Brown to the 76ers in exchange for Paul George, first-round draft picks, and additional assets. The front office also added center Mitchell Robinson in free agency to strengthen the team’s interior defense, while Mike Conley joined to provide experience in the backcourt.
The Celtics retained several important contributors as well. Center Neemias Queta, who averaged 10.2 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks while shooting 65.3% from the field across 76 games, signed a four-year extension. Jordan Walsh also received a veteran extension after emerging as a regular rotation player.
