Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum may be sidelined by a devastating Achilles injury, but his reputation as one of the NBA’s elite forwards remains untarnished. Despite suffering a ruptured right Achilles tendon during the second round of the 2025 playoffs against the New York Knicks, Tatum has earned a surprising and prestigious ranking from The Athletic’s Zach Harper, who placed him as the second-best forward in the league, trailing only Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The injury, which occurred in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, has forced the Celtics to confront the 2025-26 season without their cornerstone player. Tatum, who underwent successful surgery in May and is expected to miss most—if not all—of the upcoming season, faces a challenging recovery. Yet, his undeniable talent and versatility continue to command respect across the NBA landscape.
“Tatum is staying at two here, despite the Achilles injury,” Harper wrote in his rankings for The Athletic. “I’m just assuming/hoping he’ll get back to full strength in the next year or so. Tatum is able to do pretty much everything on the court. He shoots the ball efficiently from all three levels on the court and has turned himself into a solid defender.”
Tatum’s all-around game has long been a hallmark of his rise to superstardom. Last season, the 27-year-old averaged 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and six assists per game, showcasing his ability to impact both ends of the floor. His efficiency as a three-level scorer, combined with his growth into a reliable defender, has solidified his status as a complete player. Even with the uncertainty surrounding his recovery, Harper’s ranking reflects confidence in Tatum’s ability to return to his dominant form, drawing comparisons to Kevin Durant’s successful comeback from a similar injury in 2019.
The Celtics, who claimed the NBA championship in 2024, now face a daunting task without their leading scorer, rebounder, and playmaker. Tatum’s absence leaves a significant void, with the team already navigating a precarious financial situation due to a projected $225 million payroll and a looming luxury tax bill approaching $280 million. Despite these challenges, Tatum’s high ranking serves as a reminder of his critical role in Boston’s long-term aspirations.
“Tatum is a great driver, a four-time champion for good reason,” Harper noted, also praising other young forwards like Orlando’s Paolo Banchero and New Orleans’ Zion Williamson, but emphasizing Tatum’s unique blend of skills. “He brings a complete game to the Celtics.”
As Tatum continues his rehabilitation, his focus remains on returning to the court as the same dynamic force that led Boston to their record-breaking 18th title. Recent updates indicate progress, with Tatum spotted without a boot or brace at a Patriots training camp in August, a positive sign in his recovery journey. While the road ahead is long, his youth and determination—coupled with the precedent set by players like Durant—offer hope for a full recovery by the 2026-27 season.
For Celtics fans, Harper’s ranking is a silver lining amid a challenging offseason. It reaffirms Tatum’s standing as one of the NBA’s premier talents and fuels optimism that the six-time All-Star will reclaim his place among the league’s elite. Until then, Boston will look to its depth and resilience to stay competitive, all while eagerly awaiting the return of their franchise cornerstone.
