SPORTS

Tatum returns, Celtics rally, MSG emotional milestone ahead

PUBLISHED Apr 7, 2026, 11:47 PM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 11

Left 9%

Center 91%

Sources: 11

Boston — The Celtics defeated the Charlotte Hornets 113-102 on Tuesday as Jaylen Brown scored 35 and Jayson Tatum added 23, including 15 in the second half; a third-quarter surge secured the win. Tatum said he intends to play at Madison Square Garden this Thursday for the first time since his injury. The victory improved Boston's record to 54-25 while Charlotte fell to 43-37; team officials and Tatum confirmed his plan to play in New York on Thursday. If current standings hold this week, the matchup could influence potential playoff pairings with the New York Knicks.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Last season: Tatum ruptured his right Achilles at Madison Square Garden during Eastern Conference semifinals.
Next day: Tatum underwent surgery and began a near 10-month rehabilitation.
March 6: Tatum made his season debut after rehab and began a 15-game stretch.
Tuesday, April: Celtics defeated Hornets 113-102 with Jaylen Brown scoring 35.
Thursday, upcoming: Tatum plans to play at Madison Square Garden for first time since injury.

News Intelligence

Tatum's return to Madison Square Garden is a comeback story. It shows the power of resilience and determination. For fans, it's a reminder that setbacks can lead to comebacks. If you're a Celtics fan, it's a good day to wear your green and white.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 1
Neutral:: 10

Who Benefited

The Boston Celtics gained a 113-102 win, improved standings to 54-25, and secured momentum and player confidence ahead of upcoming road games and potential playoff matchups.

Who Impacted

The Charlotte Hornets dropped to 43-37 after the loss, and Jayson Tatum faces renewed emotional difficulty returning to Madison Square Garden where he previously ruptured his Achilles.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 1
Neutral:: 10
Distribution:: Left 9%, Center 91%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

The Boston Celtics gained a 113-102 win, improved standings to 54-25, and secured momentum and player confidence ahead of upcoming road games and potential playoff matchups.

Who Impacted

The Charlotte Hornets dropped to 43-37 after the loss, and Jayson Tatum faces renewed emotional difficulty returning to Madison Square Garden where he previously ruptured his Achilles.