Explosive! Tatum may return! Expected to face off against NBA's top draft pick

Renowned reporter Bill Simmons recently stated on a podcast: "All signs indicate that Tatum may return on March 7th, this Saturday, in the Celtics' home game against the Mavericks."

If true, it would be an absolute medical miracle. Considering Tatum suffered a ruptured right Achilles tendon in mid-May last year, the fact that he could return to the court in less than a year is something previously unimaginable.

It would be great if Flagg could also return this Saturday. His matchup against Tatum would ignite the NBA. The former has missed seven consecutive games due to a left midfoot sprain. So far this season, he has played 49 games, averaging 34.1 minutes per game with contributions of 20.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.2 steals, with shooting splits of 48.2%, 30.2%, and 80.4%.

So far, the Celtics hold a 40-20 record, ranking second in the Eastern Conference, and remain one of the most competitive teams in the East for the championship. It's easy to imagine that once Tatum returns, this 2024 championship team will become even more formidable.

The Celtics possess a highly mature offensive and defensive system. This season, their average points allowed (107.4) and offensive efficiency (120.3) both rank first in the league, among other stats. This is the primary reason they have remained strong even in Tatum's absence.