Even though there was no official return date set, the progress around Jayson Tatum’s injury was always optimistic. Being ahead in his recovery, facing no setbacks, and Boston dominating the East at #3, felt like the stars were aligned. But those hopes will have to be curbed after the latest update from league sources.

Chris Haynes confirmed, “League sources just informed me right now that Jayson Tatum is now re-evaluating his situation, and it is up in the air on if he’s going to return at all this season.” The senior reporter even revealed that the Celtics superstar was pretty confident earlier of “returning at some point.” But because of a “couple of factors,” his return date remains undecided.

That decision could stem from his recent candid confession. “That’s (about the dream of returning) something I contemplate every day,” Tatum said on “The Pivot Podcast” when asked how much he thinks about how he will fit back in when he returns. “More so about the team.” His thought process for the team stems from the fact that Boston has already racked up 29 wins and has carved out an identity without him. That’s raised a lot of questions in his mind as he recovers from the Achilles’ injury.

“There obviously could be some challenges. And it is a thought: Do I come back? Should I wait? It’s something that I honestly, recently, in the last two weeks or so just kind of contemplate every single day.”

There were encouraging reports that Jayson Tatum had not experienced any setbacks in his recovery since undergoing surgery in May. Even NBA insider Jake Fischer had described the positive mindset of the Boston Celtics star a few weeks ago. “Tatum has told a friend of The Stein Line, Chris Haynes, that he intends to return from last May’s torn Achilles before this season’s playoffs. An official timetable for a Tatum comeback has not yet been released.”

The Beantown thought Jayson Tatum would return this season, but Chris Haynes says the situation is now “up in the air”. A lot to think about for the franchise as the trade deadline approaches.

Jayson Tatum’s uncertainty might help the $27.6 million star

Until Tatum’s update, the Celtics were shopping Anfernee Simons’ $27.6 million expiring contract. The requirement was simple: an impact starting center, according to a Jan. 25 report from Evan Sidery. With the idea of Tatum returning, the roster around him is not built to absorb that transition as currently constructed.

According to Sidery’s report, the Celtics have inquired about Ivica Zubac, Nic Claxton, Onyeka Okongwu, and Daniel Gafford. These names clearly hint at Boston looking to solve its defensive anchor problems, who can also protect the rim. A clear upgrade over current players Neemias Queta and Luka Garza, who aren’t elite when it comes to stabilizing the paint. So, shipping Simons when Jayson Tatum was somewhat ready for return made sense. But now that’s no longer the case.

On the court, Simons has been a useful contributor. The 26-year-old is fifth best for minutes, fourth best for points, and assists. These efforts prove his value, and without Tatum, he might get some extended rope on the team.