After the Boston Celtics’ painful exit from the 2025 NBA Playoffs, where they were defeated 4-2 by the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals, the team was dealt another blow: Jayson Tatum suffered a torn Achilles tendon in Game 4 of the series. With Tatum expected to miss most of the 2025-26 NBA season, the Celtics have shaken up their roster, and many expect them to struggle.
However, even while sidelined, Tatum has continued to make an impact, and Jordan Walsh recently shared how Tatum’s presence is still strongly felt in the gym.
Jayson Tatum: A ‘Silent Leader’ for the Boston Celtics
Jordan Walsh, one of the Celtics’ rising stars, spoke about the impact Tatum has on the team’s atmosphere despite his injury. “The energy in the gym changes when he walks through,” Walsh told NBC Sports Boston. “He’s not the most vocal guy, he’s more of a silent leader. Him and JB [Jaylen Brown] are more silent leaders. So when they step in the gym, you could feel the energy shift. You can feel the attention and go on them.”
Tatum’s quiet leadership is something that Walsh values and sees as an essential part of the team’s dynamic. Even though Tatum isn’t on the court, his presence alone helps elevate the team’s mood and drive.
Walsh on Tatum’s Recovery: ‘Big Difference’
As Tatum works hard to recover from his Achilles injury, there’s been optimism about his progress. It was previously reported that Tatum is ahead of his recovery schedule, and Walsh shared his own observations on the star’s recovery. “I’ve seen him from when he messed up his Achilles to now, and it’s a big difference,” Walsh said. “He’s moving around way better, so he’s progressing well.”
While the Celtics face uncertainty without their star forward, Walsh expressed his relief at seeing Tatum make such strides in his recovery. “I’m definitely happy to see him getting back healthy, but to see him in the gym, definitely sets a precedent for everybody else,” Walsh added. “If a guy’s hurt trying to get back, and then you can do the same thing when you’re perfectly healthy, you should be doing the same thing.”
The Celtics had an impressive 61-21 record last season, securing the second seed in the East. While Tatum’s absence will undoubtedly affect their chances, his ongoing leadership and commitment to recovery show that the Celtics’ foundation remains strong. It will be interesting to see how the 18-time NBA champions adjust and where they land in the conference next season. But for now, Tatum’s influence continues to resonate, even from the sidelines.
