The Boston Celtics may have planned to sit Jayson Tatum for the season, but Carmelo Anthony believes the team should reconsider – and bring its star forward back if he’s healthy.
With Tatum nearing a return from the Achilles injury he suffered during last year’s playoff series against the New York Knicks, Boston faces a decision that looks far different from what was expected.
Initially projected to take a developmental step back without its six-time All-Star, the Celtics instead enter the stretch run at 35-19 and second place in the Eastern Conference, fueled by Jaylen Brown’s standout campaign.
That unexpected positioning has shifted the conversation from preservation to possibility – and Anthony, now an analyst, made clear where he stands in comments to reporter Mark Medina.
“If he’s healthy enough to come back and play, then you play him,” Anthony said.
This is about saving the championship window. If they can do it, bring him back and play him limited minutes so he can get in game shape.
Anthony insisted, “If you have one of the best players in this league ready to come back, putting in the work and checking every box, then why not bring him back?”
Miller supported Anthony’s request
Anthony argued Boston’s current form minimizes the risk of disruption, noting the team’s momentum under Brown’s leadership.
“The team is already rolling. Jaylen Brown is having an MVP-caliber season,” he said. “If Jayson can come back for a couple of games to get his wind and timing back, I don’t see how that disturbs the Celtics. I only think it enhances it.”
Fellow analyst Reggie Miller acknowledged the delicate balance between maintaining chemistry and maximizing talent but leaned toward a similar conclusion.
While praising Brown’s play and coach Joe Mazzulla’s management of the roster – suggesting both deserve award consideration – Miller questioned whether reintegrating an elite player should be viewed as a risk.
“If you can add an All-NBA first-teamer, I don’t think it messes up rhythm,”Miller said. “I wouldn’t give him major minutes if he comes back, but I’ve seen him at the workout facility, and he looks great. He’s even ramping up with G League activity. Having an All-NBA guy for 15 or 20 minutes in the playoffs – that only helps.”
Celtics need to consider the long-term benefit
The Celtics must weigh that perspective against long-term health considerations. Resting Tatum until next season would remain the most cautious medical approach, especially given the severity of Achilles recoveries.
Yet Boston’s place near the top of the conference – and the relative parity across the East – creates pressure to evaluate whether a controlled return could elevate a legitimate postseason run.
For now, the decision rests with Boston’s medical staff and front office. But with the playoffs approaching and external voices advocating for urgency, Tatum’s timeline has become one of the most closely watched storylines in the NBA.
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