Jayson Tatum is set to take a significant step in his recovery from a torn Achilles.
The Boston Celtics announced that the star forward will join their G League affiliate in Maine for portions of its practice on Monday. Tatum will then be immediately recalled to the big club, where he will continue his rehab process, per the team release.
Boston said further updates on Tatum's status would be provided as appropriate.
ESPN's Shams Charania reported Sunday that the 27-year-old had recently begun playing 5-on-5 against Celtics coaches.
Tatum suffered the torn Achilles in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks last May.
He was given a possible recovery timeline of eight to nine months, which had put him in line for a possible return in the coming weeks, barring any setbacks.
Over his eight years with the Celtics since being drafted third overall in 2017, Tatum has blossomed into one of the best wings in the NBA. He averaged 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, 6.0 assists and 1.1 steals last season and was named to the All-NBA first team for the fourth time in his career.
Despite being without Tatum, the Celtics have remained a contender in a weak Eastern Conference.
They entered Monday tied with the Knicks for second in the East with a 34-19 record. Jaylen Brown has been a driving force for Boston, averaging 29.4 points, 6.9 rebounds and 4.7 assists over 48 games, earning his fifth NBA all-star nod for his efforts.
