Could a Jayson Tatum return push the Celtics to the top of the East?

The Boston Celtics are currently third in the Eastern Conference. Joe Mazzulla’s team has found its rhythm in recent weeks, despite a tough loss to the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday, Dec. 11. For a team that was expected to struggle after a summer that saw multiple members of the championship-winning roster depart, the Celtics have been defying expectations at every turn.

After 25 games, Boston ranks third in the league for offensive rating, scoring 121.4 points per 100 possessions. However, their defense needs some work, with the team sitting 18th in the league, allowing 115 points per 100 possessions. Fortunately for Celtics fans, Mazzulla’s team can still improve, and that starts with a potential Jayson Tatum return later in the season.

Tatum is currently sidelined with an Achilles tendon injury. According to Jason Timpf, via his “Hoops Tonight” podcast, Boston could emerge as the best team in the Eastern Conference once, or if, Tatum is cleared to return at some point this season. Timpf then went on to explain how Tatum’s return could elevate the Celtics on both sides of the floor.