Celtics' Jayson Tatum says playoff return feels like added reward

Jayson Tatum returned in March after tearing his Achilles last May and helped the Celtics go 13-3 with him in the lineup; the first-round series against the Philadelphia 76ers begins Sunday, with Joel Embiid ruled out of Game 1 and Tyrese Maxey identified as a primary on-court threat.

Jayson Tatum has spoken about his return to the Celtics after tearing his Achilles last May and the changed perspective that followed. He came back in March and played with a minutes restriction while rebuilding his rhythm. The team performed well with him on the floor late in the regular season. The Celtics now open a first-round series against the Philadelphia 76ers. What we know: - Tatum missed time last season after an Achilles tear and returned to play in March under a minutes restriction. - With Tatum in the lineup this season, the Celtics went 13-3 and he averaged about 21.8 points, 10.0 rebounds and 5.3 assists in 16 games. - Tatum has said he sometimes still does not feel fully like himself on the court and that he wants to keep improving. - The first-round series against the 76ers is scheduled to begin Sunday. Joel Embiid (appendix) has been ruled out of Game 1. - Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla highlighted Tyrese Maxey as a major challenge and noted the 76ers have become more balanced as players have returned to health. Summary: Tatum’s return has been an important development for Boston and has raised expectations for the postseason, while questions about his full recovery remain part of the context. The immediate focus is the opening series against Philadelphia, with Embiid out for Game 1 and Maxey expected to be a key opponent; Undetermined at this time.