Jayson Tatum out of health and safety protocols, return to be determined

Even though the Boston Celtics are getting closer to full strength after losing nearly half its roster to health and safety protocols that led to the postponement of three games, they are still missing one critical piece.

But star forward Jayson Tatum’s return now seems imminent.

Prior to Wednesday’s matchup versus the Philadelphia 76ers, coach Brad Stevens announced that Tatum is out of health and safety protocols. Stevens said Tatum is feeling good, but needs to ramp things up before playing. Stevens didn’t give an indication whether Tatum would be available Friday versus the 76ers.

Tatum, who hasn’t played since scoring 32 points on Jan. 8 in a win over the Washington Wizards, did workout in Boston today and if he is to suit up for Boston’s next contest, it’s likely the C’s go with a cautious approach and put Tatum on a minutes restriction since he would be playing his first game in two weeks.

Stevens also told the media in his pre-game press conference that Kemba Walker, who made his season debut Sunday versus the Knicks, will still be on a minutes restriction with Walker slated to play around 20 minutes again.

Robert Williams III is back tonight after clearing health and safety protocols, but it will be in a limited role as he eases back into things. Stevens said Williams won’t play more than 10 to 15 minutes in his return.