Celtics-76ers game upgraded to national television, sparks heavy speculation about Jayson Tatum's return originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Boston Celtics have been patiently waiting for their franchise star, Jayson Tatum, to return to the NBA after suffering a season-ending achilles tear in the playoffs of last year. Recently, the Celtics provided a huge update, revealing Tatum was participating in five-on-five practices. Now, another update regarding a certain game has sparked even more debate.
Per Celtics insider Steve Bulpett, Boston’s home game against the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday, March 1st, has been upgraded to a nationally televised game on NBC, in the primetime slot at 8pm EST. With that information released many people believe it may signal the return of a certain superstar.
REPORT
— Savage (@SavageSports_) February 13, 2026
per: @SteveBHoop
“the Celtics' home game versus Philadelphia on Sunday, March 1st has been moved from 6 pm to 8 and will now be televised by NBC.”
Hmmmm. Wonder why??
👀 pic.twitter.com/dm6xdSUmdW
It would make sense for Tatum to come back, as they did say at the beginning of the year, if he were to return, late February to March would be the pocket. And, with the 76ers being a division rival that Tatum consistently performs well against, it would make a lot of sense for him to return.
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Getting Tatum back would be a huge boost to Boston. Without him, they crushed expectations, going 35-19 and sitting in second place in the Eastern Conference, with Tatum’s co-star Jaylen Brown having an MVP candidate season. If Tatum were to return, that could lift them even further, and maybe even make a late run for the 1st seed held by the Detroit Pistons.
Hopefully, these speculations turn out to be true, as it could be Boston’s best bet for a path to Banner 19.
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