Tatum sits among the era’s elite, with 95 rating in the prior season and top-tier fantasy appeal. His continued growth in scoring, efficiency, and playmaking should keep him at the forefront of drafts, particularly as 2K26’s ratings echo his status in the league’s upper echelon.

Tatum’s extended absence heightens early guard workload and creates a temporary rebalancing of Boston’s offense. His return will recalibrate usage and pace, but for now the guard rotation bears the fantasy burden of sustaining production amid lineup changes.

Tatum’s injury absence drives the pivot to a retooled lineup, with White, Porzingis, Kornet and Holiday all stepping into bigger roles. The season hinges on how quickly Boston can synchronize its new pieces and maintain offensive efficiency while awaiting Tatum’s return.

Tatum’s health matters in the East; his absence or limited impact softens Celtics’ edge and reshapes the Knicks’ championship timeline, adding variance to the conference race.

Tatum's Achilles injury shifts Boston's offense to Brown and White, upping their volume and opportunity. Fantasy managers should monitor usage shifts, minutes, and team rotation changes as the Celtics lean on Brown as a primary scorer and White as a supplementary creator, potentially elevating mid-round targets around Boston.