Boston returns to Madison Square Garden Thursday as Jayson Tatum and the Celtics face the New York Knicks. A win locks the second seed in the Eastern Conference, a prize the Celtics, sitting third in the East, covet. Tatum still recalls the Achilles tear that ended his 2025‑26 season at the same arena, calling the game “just another” on the schedule.

Since rejoining the lineup a month ago, Tatum has helped Boston post a 13‑2 record when he plays. His shooting has risen, hitting over 50% in three of his last five games, including an 8‑for‑15 effort against Charlotte on Tuesday. Beyond scoring, he contributes rebounds, playmaking and defensive rotations, keeping the Celtics ahead of Cleveland and New York as his confidence grows.

Tatum’s minutes hit a season high Tuesday as the Celtics fine‑tune chemistry before the postseason. A victory would not only seal the second seed but also set up a potential Eastern semifinals clash with the Knicks, echoing last year’s series that ended with his injury. He shrugged off the venue’s memory, saying he’ll simply get it over with.