Watch Celtics' Joe Mazzulla Avoid Question About Jayson Tatum's Practice Status Amid Injury Rehab

Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla is remaining tight-lipped about the status of star forward Jayson Tatum as he continues working his way back from a torn Achilles tendon.

While speaking to reporters before Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Lakers, Mazzulla confirmed that Tatum was present at Celtics practice on Saturday, but when asked if the 27-year-old participated in any of it, the coach went completely mute:

Earlier this month, Tatum participated in 5-on-5 practice with the Celtics' G League affiliate in Maine, but made it clear that it didn't mean his return was imminent.

"Today is 39 weeks [since the Achilles tear] so it's been a long journey," Tatum told reporters at the time. "And it's just the progression of rehab, [this was] the next step. Doesn't mean that I'm coming back or I'm not. We're just following the plan. It was just another step."

The Celtics entered Sunday's game ranked second in the Eastern Conference with a 36-19 record, so the team isn't rushing Tatum back to the court. However, if he's able to return for the playoffs, he would certainly boost Boston's chances of contending for an NBA championship.

For now, Mazzulla and the rest of the Celtics appear to be committed to keeping Tatum's status under wraps.