Jayson Tatum posts 15-12-7 line in emotional return from Achilles injury

Jayson Tatum drives past Mavericks defense in Boston's blowout win.

Jayson Tatum returned from Achilles injury with 15 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists against Dallas. The Celtics forward played 27 minutes in a 120-100 rout of the Mavericks. Boston snapped a mini skid behind the star's playmaking.

Tatum shot 6-for-16 with three triples in his first action since playoffs. He dished game-high assists while grabbing double-digit boards. Coach eased his workload after long layoff.

Jaylen Brown paced scoring with 28 points on efficient night. Derrick White added 22 in support role. Celtics defense held Luka Doncic under 30 for first time this month.

Injury hit Tatum in East Semis last spring versus Knicks. Boston went 8-2 without him in regular season stretch. Medical staff cleared full participation now.

Celtics hold top spot in East with 10 games left. Tatum slots back atop lineup with Brown. Playoff path firms up after playoff heartbreak.

Dallas drops third straight on road trip. Mavs lean heavy on Doncic amid West wild-card fight. Boston bench outscored counterparts by 20.

Tatum downplayed minutes cap postgame. He eyes rhythm before postseason push. Garden crowd roared on every touch Friday.

Next test comes against Atlantic rival. Celtics chase historic repeat campaign. Tatum's health swings title odds wide open