Tatum Returns to MSG After Achilles Injury

Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum faces an emotional milestone this week as he prepares to return to Madison Square Garden for Thursday's matchup against the New York Knicks, marking his first appearance there since a season-ending Achilles injury last year.

The injury occurred in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Knicks in May, when Tatum ruptured his right Achilles tendon and was carried off the court. The six-time All-Star underwent surgery the following day, embarking on a rigorous nearly 10-month rehabilitation process. He made his season debut on March 6 and has since played in 15 games, averaging more than 20 points and 10 rebounds per contest as the playoffs approach. Due to his ongoing recovery, Tatum has avoided back-to-back games, but he confirmed he plans to suit up in New York before the Celtics host the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday.

Tatum acknowledged the mental challenge of revisiting the site of his ordeal. "Nah, not really," he said Tuesday after Boston's 113-102 victory over the Charlotte Hornets, where he scored 23 points. "I mean, yeah, I thought about it. Not, like, thrilled to go back and play there. Last time I played there,...