Celtics’ Jayson Tatum records 20 points against Cavaliers, ‘returning to form’
CLEVELAND — Celtics power forward Jayson Tatum expressed his appreciation for making his return from a ruptured right Achilles tendon at home in Boston.
The six-time All-Star was nearly as satisfied that his second game took place on the road Sunday afternoon.
Tatum contributed six of his 20 points in the fourth quarter, sealing the victory with a 3-pointer with 1:59 left as the Celtics triumphed over the Cleveland Cavaliers 109-98 in a matchup of Eastern Conference rivals.
“Today felt much more normal, just from a preparation standpoint in this league,” Tatum remarked. “It felt like I was back in the rhythm again.”
“I’m just incredibly happy to be back and eager to be out there more.”
Two nights prior, Tatum recorded 15 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists in his emotional return at TD Garden during a win against the Dallas Mavericks. He received several standing ovations in his first game since rupturing the tendon in the playoffs on May 12.
The crowd at Rocket Arena was not as welcoming, but those in Celtics attire cheered for him each time he had the ball. Among them was his mother, Brandy Cole-Barnes, who surprised him by attending the game.
Tatum and his mother were inseparable throughout his 298-day rehabilitation process, which commenced after reconstructive surgery on May 13.
“She texted me this morning to say, ‘Hey, I’m coming to Cleveland,'” Tatum said, smiling. “I looked up in the stands and she was just crying. Seeing me on the court clearly brings her a lot of joy.”
The 6-foot-8 Tatum started, playing 27 minutes and making 6-of-16 field goals in both games. His playing time is being limited for safety reasons, but Boston coach Joe Mazzulla ensured Tatum was on the court during critical moments.
Tatum missed all six of his attempts during the second and third quarters before coming through in the final seven minutes. He shared the floor with longtime Celtics teammates — and fellow 2024 NBA champions — Jaylen Brown and Payton Pritchard.
“We’re thrilled to have a first-team All-NBA player back who can do it all,” Pritchard stated. “It makes us a really strong team, and he looks incredible. He’s accomplishing things that not many players have done. It’s a seamless transition for all of us.”
