Celtics’ Joe Mazzulla gives 9-word response to Jayson Tatum injury return question

The Boston Celtics have been rolling this season and as the second half of the season gets underway, they are in second place in the Eastern Conference behind the charging Detroit Pistons.

The Celtics won their first game after the All-Star break as they secured a 121-110 road victory over the Golden State Warriors. The Celtics have a 36-19 record and they have been on a recent hot streak, winning 8 of their last 10 games. They are on a 4-game road trip and that journey continues Sunday with a nationally televised game against the Los Angeles Lakers, their historic rivals.

The success of the Celtics this season has been something of a surprise since they have been playing without superstar Jayson Tatum. He tore his Achilles in last year’s playoffs against the New York Knicks. They also parted company with several key veterans including Jrue Holiday, Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis. As a result, most expected the Celtics to tumble in the Eastern Conference.

However, the Celtics have gotten brilliant play and leadership from Jaylen Brown, and he has gotten excellent support from Payton Pritchard and Derrick White. Pritchard is averaging 29.3 points and 7.0 rebounds per game. Pritchard is contributing 17.4 points and 5.4 assists per game, while White is averaging 17.1 points 5.6 assists per night.

Tatum has been making a strong recovery from his injury and there have been several stories hinting at his possible return later this year. If that happens, he would be able to participate in the playoffs.

Mazzulla refused to offer any significant information and would not provide an update. “I don’t operate on feel,” Mazzulla said. “I live by principle.”

Despite the coach’s failure to shed light on Tatum’s status, Celtics observers believe he will return if he is mentally ready to compete at the highest level.

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