Tatum led the way with 25 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists on 9-for-17 shooting, showcasing efficiency as he returns from a torn Achilles last year. The performance confirms his continued impact, even as he remains in the process of fully ramping back up.
After the game, Tatum stressed that he is still rehabbing and returning, emphasizing daily work to condition and regain peak form. He noted that he played 16 games since his return and is focused on continued improvement and preparation for each playoff outing.
In his 16-game return, Tatum has posted strong numbers: about 21.8 points, 10 rebounds, 5.3 assists per game, and a solid shooting percentage. While he isn’t yet at 100%, his contributions this spring have been a clear indicator that he’s trending toward his pre-injury level.
Boston has built one of the league’s deepest teams, and the win underscored that they can contend even when navigating health during the postseason. With Tatum back in the lineup, the Celtics appear better positioned to pursue another title run.
The Celtics aren’t taking the matchup for granted, however, and remain focused on sustaining momentum. They’ll look to double up the series lead in Game 2, aiming to seize a commanding 2-0 edge as they head into the next matchup.
