Celtics' Jayson Tatum Teasing Return vs Mavericks

Merlin sees Jayson Tatum poised to return as early as Friday against the Mavericks, listed "questionable" and called "pretty much inevitable" by reports. After last season's Achilles tear, Boston has overachieved at 41-21 despite trading Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porziņģis, so Tatum's availability shifts the Celtics' championship calculus. Merlin warns patience. Expect limited minutes and a gradual ramp back, more like Paul George's cautious post-injury cameo than an instant revival. Coach Joe Mazzulla will protect Tatum's long term health over short-term fireworks. A careful comeback now may be about priming him for next fall as much as changing this postseason.