What Jayson Tatum is doing in speedy Achilles comeback is remarkable

· Yahoo Sports

Jayson Tatum is really doing this.

Visit librea.one for more information.

It's been less than 10 months since he ruptured his Achilles in that Game 4 of the East semis against the Knicks, and he's already back hooping like nothing happened. It seemed borderline irresponsible the Celtics were even considering letting him come back so fast. Now, through two games, it's not hard to see why they felt he was ready.

In his latest game Sunday, Tatum dropped 20 points to help lift Boston over the Cleveland Cavaliers. His 16 field goal attempts were one shy of Jaylen Brown for most on the team, making clear Tatum isn't just out there to be an all-NBA decoy. He's out there to be Jayson Tatum.

Don't get it twisted. He's still far from the best version of himself. He's only shooting 38 percent from the field. But it's apparent he won't be playing a complimentary role to what Jaylen Brown and the others were already doing on their run to the second-best record in the East. It's as incredible to watch as it is difficult.

Just about every player we've ever seen suffer a torn Achilles sat out at least an entire year. We're wired to think anything less than that standard 12 months increases the chance of re-injury. Which brings to the viewing experience a bit of uneasiness with every cut, jump and sudden move Tatum makes. But it also brings a ton of awe when he's not only getting through entire games, but starting and making a real contribution.

He's already averaging 17.5 points, 7.5 rebounds and 4.5 assists.

I don't know if it's fair to expect Tatum to reach peak form by the playoffs, but at this rate, it seems possible he comes close. That's something I didn't think was possible a week ago, which already makes this a remarkable return. I'll still be crossing my fingers as we continue watching to see how good it can get.

Victor Wembanyama emotional after win

Don't tell Victor Wembanyama the NBA regular season doesn't matter. After his San Antonio Spurs overcame a 25-point comeback to beat the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday, the big man was brought to literal tears.

After the game, Wembanyama said it was "close to being the hardest game of my life." He finished with a team-high 27 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks to help lead San Antonio to its second-largest comeback in the play-by-play era (since 1997-98).

San Antonio followed that win with a 25-point victory over the Rockets on Sunday to improve to an NBA-best 15-1 record since Feb. 1.

Quick hits: Baseball and espressos ... Hurley tantrum x2 ... and more

This was For The Win’s daily newsletter, The Morning Win. Did a friend recommend or forward this to you? If so, subscribe here.

This article originally appeared on For The Win: What Jayson Tatum is doing in speedy Achilles comeback is remarkable

Read full story at source