The life of former Cleveland Browns No. 1 pick Johnny Manziel took another strange turn this week.

Manziel has one of the strangest stories in the history of pro sports. In 2012, the Texas native took college football by storm with one of the best freshman seasons of all-time. In his first year at Texas A&M, he was not only All-American and SEC Offensive Player of the Year, but also the first freshman to win the “Johnny Football” Heisman Trophy.

He completed 69.9% of his passes as a sophomore, throwing for 4,114 yards, rushing for 759 more and scoring 46 total touchdowns. Despite being only 6-foot-1 and 210 pounds, his spirited play led to him being taken 22nd overall in the 2014 NFL Draft by the Browns. Then things went downhill rapidly.

A wild party life and severe lack of dedication during game week quickly proved that the star, barely out of his teens, was not ready for the NFL. Then, when domestic violence allegations surfaced in 2016, the Heisman Trophy winner was out of the league after just two seasons.

Since opting out, he has played for the Canadian Football League (CFL), Alliance of American Football (AAF) and then Fan Controlled Football (FCF) a few years ago. He has been unable to recapture the success or money-making opportunities he enjoyed a decade ago.

Johnny Manziel set to do boxing bout at UFC Apex this month

That’s why he’s started venturing away from the field, including owning a bar, podcasting, and reality TV. Well, it looks like he is planning a comeback to sports soon, but not football. According to ESPN’s Andreas Hell, he will instead step into the boxing ring to take on the impressive Bob Menery inside the UFC Apex later this month (May 23).

“The fight will be promoted by Kik streamer Adin Ross’ brand Risk Promotions, which is known for pitting celebrities against content creators in boxing matches,” reports Hale.

UFC CEO Dana White has shown great interest in the fight because of his ongoing feud with Menary. While this should probably be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, in the era of Jake Paul being a star in boxing, it wouldn’t be surprising if this is the beginning of a new and unexpected career for the 33-year-old.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

Manchester United We’ve seen Antony explain his move to Real Betis more than once – and he’s not really changing the script.

The Brazilian is still performing strongly in Spain, with 13 goals and nine assists in 41 appearances this season. That output has helped him restore confidence after a difficult spell at Old Trafford, where things never went consistently well.

Recently he revealed about going to Real Betis “One of the best decisions of his life”. Now, in another interview globo esporteAntony has gone back to the same topics again. This time, he added a little more detail about what went wrong during his Manchester United tenure.

Antony again points to off-pitch issues

Antony emphasizes his struggles in England weren’t about football ability.

“The off-pitch part affects a lot. I had some problems outside football that affected me. It was a complicated moment, but it brought learning and maturity.” He said.

“It was in those difficult moments that I stopped, reflected and began to value the simple things. It was a difficult period behind the scenes, which very few people know about, but it made me realize that I needed to find myself and be good for things to flow.”

He made it clear that he has no regrets about joining Manchester United.

“I don’t forget playing football. I don’t regret going to Manchester. I’m grateful to the club. I learned a lot there.” Antony added.

Betis is still the turning point

Antony once again described His move to Real Betis As an important moment.

“It was very important for me. This is where I found myself. This is where I found myself and could become very happy in a short period of time.” he explained.

“Even before I arrived on loan, I was already mentally preparing, because I knew I had a short time and I could make a difference.”

He also spoke about how quickly things changed after leaving Manchester United.

“I was called again [by the national team] Immediately after arriving at Betis, which was very important for me. It was emotional because of the change. I was playing very little in England, not feeling good or happy and then I came here and helped the team, became one of the great players.

“Today I feel much more prepared, more mature. I’m living my best moments on and off the field with my family.”

Cristiano Ronaldo story adds fresh details

Antony at least offered something new as he shared more details about his time with Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United.

“Cristiano is a great person. You learn a lot from him.” He said. “He once joked to me that people think he’s arrogant, but in daily life he’s very playful.”

“We used to sit at the table and he would talk about life, books and many other topics besides football. It was good because it helped us to differentiate. He would say: ‘Today we will not talk about football.’

There were light moments behind the scenes too.

“Once in the sauna he joked with me, showed me his body and asked if he looked 23 years old. I was embarrassed too, because you see the level of care he takes even at the age of almost 40. He is a reference for everyone.”

The magic of Man United still sets the tone

Antony keeps telling the same story, just with slightly different details each time. He clearly does not view Manchester United with despair, but it does not seem so either someone who remembers it. Meanwhile, United have also moved on.

Nevertheless, his form at Betis underlines that he is a player there. A reminder that context and environment can shape outcomes just as much as ability.

of manchester united The decision to move Antony makes sense when you juxtapose it with what he is doing at Real Betis.

Brazil has quietly produced its most productive performance in years. In all competitions, he has 13 goals and nine assists in 40 games. In La Liga, this is limited to seven goals and five assists in 26 appearances.

The underlying numbers also support this. Antony averages 0.54 goal involvements per 90 minutes. He takes 3.08 shots per game and scores once every 9.71 attempts.

Furthermore, he makes 2.04 key passes per match and completes 81.61% of his 43 passes per game.

It’s a very different level of involvement compared to what we saw at Old Trafford. In Spain, his role is clearer and he is much more involved in the final third. real daughters His career and his mentality changed.

It all comes at a crucial moment. The announcement of Brazil’s World Cup squad is approaching and Antony is trying to get back into the picture.

Betis’ decision is shaping international expectations

Antony has now come out openly espn brazil Regarding both his club situation and his Brazilian ambitions. His current situation at Betis clearly plays a big role in that push.

“Staying at Betis was one of the best decisions of my life,” Antony added. “I am very happy. my family was overweight In the decision. It is important to see them happy.”

“When the family is okay it makes things lighter on the field.”He concluded.

He was part of the squad for the last World Cup under Tite, but has not been able to perform much under Carlo Ancelotti so far. Still, he’s not giving up on building the next one.

“My biggest dream is to play in the World Cup, but I have to do my part, my job, the national team is the result.” He said.

“I really want to come back, play my second World Cup. It’s my aim to always wear the national team shirt.”

life without antony

Antony seems to be someone who has settled in Spain and not a player looking back at Manchester United.

But he thinks the chances go both ways. United have moved on without him and given the way things have turned out, they hardly miss him. The team changed and Antony’s role was never fully fleshed out during his stay in England.

“His current stats highlight that there is still a player out there,” he said. At Betis, he looks more confident, more engaged and more decisive.

This is a case of a player who needed a different setting to bring out his best level. This time is ideal for Antony. He has given himself a real chance to get back into the Brazilian conversation when it matters most.

of bournemouth The rising Brazilian team is beginning to shape the club’s season, with Ryan and Ivanilsson both giving insight into their rapid progress in the Premier League and their ambitions ahead of the World Cup.

in an interview with espn brazilThe pair reflected on adaptation, form and life under Andoni Ireola, while also touching on the wider impact of their performances – including the attention of rival fans and the Brazil national team establishment.

Fast start and growing confidence

Ryan has wasted little time in making an impact In England. His early contributions helped Bournemouth build momentum and he made it clear how important that start has been for their confidence.

“I’m very happy. It’s not easy to leave Rio and come here. But to get here and get an assist in your first game, then score in your first start in the Premier League, it gives a lot of confidence.” He said.

“The coach has given me a lot of confidence and he always talks to me. Since I arrived, we have been unbeaten, so I am very happy and want to continue that.”

Ivanilsson, now in his second Premier League season, has been instrumental in helping his compatriot settle in.

“I didn’t even know English when I came. I’m still learning,” he explained.

“I was the only Brazilian here, so when I heard Ryan was coming, I messaged him on Instagram. Since his arrival, we’ve been together a lot – lunches, meetings of our families, our wives also get to know each other, and we arrange a lot of things outside the club. I’m doing everything to help him adapt quickly.”

He also pointed to Ryan’s immediate impact on the pitch: “Our team has improved a lot since he arrived.”

Big results and outside attention

Bournemouth’s recent win over Arsenal marked a defining moment. Ivanilson, who Scored against the entire Big-Six this seasonhighlighted the importance of defeating the league leaders away from home.

“We knew how difficult it would be. Arsenal are top of the league, a big club with quality players. Winning there gave us even more confidence.” He said.

That result went unnoticed elsewhere. Ryan revealed that Manchester City fans arrived after the game.

“I got messages on Instagram from City fans thanking me for beating Arsenal,” He said. “They are confident they can turn things around, especially after the 3-0 win over Chelsea the next day, and with a big match coming up.”

Areola effect and World Cup focus

Both players were also keen to praise Ierola, who is set to leave at the end of the season.

Ivanilson said: “He is a great coach. He helped me a lot and gave me confidence. I have learned a lot from him.”

Ryan compared the manager who developed him in Brazil, Fernando DinizThe communication and trust she received was highlighted.

“He talks to me a lot and helps me, especially with the language. He develops players and gives confidence. I can only thank him for these months.” he explained.

Looking ahead, both have their eyes on Brazil selection. Ivanilsson was the first to stress the importance of the club’s performance.

“He has to keep doing his job here. The Premier League is very competitive, and the national team coaches keep a close eye. I’m supporting him.” He said.

Ryan echoed that mentality and detailed the work required both on and off the pitch: “There’s a lot of competition there, a lot of quality attackers. I have to keep working, stay prepared, do what I have to do on the field and off the field as well.” Take care and prepare properly. My chance will come. Being called earlier was a dream. Working with Ancelotti was very important for me.

What does this mean for Bournemouth

Ryan’s early influence and Ivanilsson’s growing leadership underline Bournemouth’s smart use of the Brazilian market. The chemistry between the two is already translating into results.

Moreover, his performance is serving a bigger story. Strong Premier League form is keeping them firmly in the Brazilian conversation, while also attracting attention from across the league.

With Irola still in charge, Bournemouth have a stable platform. The next step will be to maintain this momentum – and ensure that these individual stories continue to deliver collective benefit.

Kyle Busch has not won more than 100 consecutive Cup Series races, punctuating his stellar career that seemingly featured him with more than 80 wins. Now, amid growing skepticism and criticism, Bush appears to be taking issue with recent comments made by his former running mate.

When The Athletic’s Jeff Gluck asked for a reaction to Denny Hamlin’s recent comments about the future Hall of Famer’s struggles in the No. 8 car on Saturday, Busch fired back at his former teammate. He also said that he could create problems for him on the track as payback.

“80 percent of people don’t know what they’re talking about. In this case, I don’t know if Denny Hamlin even knows what he’s talking about. He can curse at me all he wants. I can definitely make his life hell.”

Kyle Busch on Denny Hamlin’s comments and the ongoing conversation about his struggles

RELATED: Denny Hamlin gives clear message on Kyle Busch’s struggles

As for Busch’s aspirations to make Hamlin’s “life hell” with the No. 8 car, that may prove a little difficult if recent history is any guide. He finished 25th at Bristol Motor Speedway and 24th at Martinsville Speedway, meaning he finished several laps behind the No. 11 car. For Sunday’s race at Kansas Speedway, check out NASCAR’s starting lineup today Hamlin is starting second after posting the second-best lap time (29.161 seconds) in qualifying with a top speed of 185.179 mph, while Busch qualified 23rd at 29.653 seconds with a top speed of 182.106 mph.

It’s understandable why Bush is disappointed. He is approaching his third full season without a win in the Cup Series, and his on-track results are only getting worse. He moved up to 24th in the standings on Sunday, just 7 points ahead of teammate Austin Dillon. Busch’s frustrations are heard over the radio, and it becomes clear that he is fed up with his situation at Richard Childress Racing in a contract year.

Hamlin’s comments came on the latest episode of Actions Detrimental. He also admitted of Busch that “talent-wise I can’t hold that guy’s helmet”, but added that his former teammate “must keep it better than your teammate (Dillon)” and added that Busch has long struggled with the Next Gen car.

Busch clearly heard those comments and said it’s the No. 8 car and team that is the biggest issue, adding that he would be happy to swap places with Hamlin and see how he handles it.

“If Denny wants to swap cars, I’ll swap cars with him any day of the week, any time. I’d love for him to show me he can take it better than me.”

Kyle Busch responds to Denny Hamlin’s comments about No. 8 car, Busch’s struggles

Hamlin never said RCR was blameless in Busch’s winless streak, even saying the team was “not good right now.” However, as someone who used to be teammates with Busch at Joe Gibbs Racing, he noted that he struggled with consistency; Even at that time, there were issues.

To that point, Busch had only one win in his final season with Joe Gibbs Racing, and had an average finishing position (16.7). Fast forward to 2026, Busch’s replacement, Ty Gibbs, is racking up wins and six consecutive top-six finishes, while Busch has finished outside the top 20 in the last four races.

RELATED: NASCAR Cup Series all-time win list, including Kyle Busch and Denny Hamlin

Busch’s frustration is understandable, and these comments coming from Hamlin may be especially impressive given what has happened over the past three years. Since Busch’s last win in the Cup Series, Hamlin has won 12 races, and now needs just one more trip to victory lane to tie for career Cup Series wins.

Given Busch’s declining performance and some of the public’s frustration towards former teammates and current crew members, he may not even have the options he is entitled to next year after his contract expires.

RELATED: Kyle Busch winless streak, things that happened before and after the win

Matt Johnson is the senior NFL and college football editor for Sportsknot. His work including the weekly NFL and college… More about Matt Johnson

Former Michigan football coach Sharon Moore avoided jail earlier this week when a judge sentenced her on two misdemeanor charges. The allegations stemmed from a confrontation with a former staff member with whom she had an inappropriate relationship.

Moore pleaded no contest last month to trespassing and malicious use of a telecommunications device in a domestic relationship. More serious charges – including felony home invasion and stalking – were dismissed as part of the deal.

This horrific incident occurred on the same day that Moore was fired by the University of Michigan. The case centered on the former coach’s uninvited visit to the apartment of his former executive assistant and mistress Paige Shiver, shortly after she dropped her case.

According to the investigation and its description, Moore entered the residence, became emotional and grabbed a kitchen knife, threatening to harm herself.

There was a shudder at the judge’s decision. In a public statement released after the hearing, he made it clear that the sentence did not match the trauma he experienced.

According to the New York Post, he said, “December 10 was the most terrible day of my life.” “The criminal acts he committed were extremely horrific and violent. He burst into my apartment crying, screaming, angry, and attacked me with knives. I was threatened, and I feared for my life.”

“Today’s sentence does not reflect the harm I suffered or the objective evidence in this case.”

A statement issued on behalf of Paige Shiver by her legal team pic.twitter.com/vXFWUqQNLw

– Isaiah Hole (@isaiahhole) 14 April 2026

Paige Shivers criticizes ‘sweetheart’ probation sentence: ‘I feared for my life’

The sentencing marks another chapter in Moore’s rapid decline. Once the Wolverines’ interim and then full head coach, he was fired due to the scandal surrounding the affair.

But the judge’s decision drew criticism that the former coach got a sweetheart deal, first with the plea bargain and then with the judge’s leniency. The judge reportedly took note of Moore’s wife’s support during the hearing, but warned that if Moore stepped out of line again, he would not be so forgiving.

“When I look at the totality of this situation I do not believe that imprisonment should be appropriate,” the judge said in sentencing. “I warn you, Mr. Moore, if there is a violation, all bets are off. I don’t like sending people to jail, but I have no problem doing it.”

It appears that he has clearly had a problem doing so in this case.

Rusty Weis is a lifelong fan of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Dallas Cowboys and Xavier Musketeers. He has been writing professionally… More about Rusty Weiss

The Detroit Red Wings took care of business on Thursday night. Dylan Larkin scored a hat-trick as the Red Wings easily defeated the Philadelphia Flyers by a score of 6-3. Detroit scored two crucial points; However, the organization did not receive much help outside the city.

The Ottawa Senators defeated the Florida Panthers, moving them three points above the Red Wings with three games remaining. Time is ticking for Detroit and it must hope for outside help. For now, an NHL team will have to focus on what it can control.

Detroit Red Wings must keep winning to stay in playoff contention

The plan moving forward is simple. The Red Wings will need to keep winning if they want to make the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs. With three games left, the Red Wings need to lose two of their three remaining games to the Senators. Detroit must win at all costs, starting with the New Jersey Devils on Saturday evening.

Since Ottawa has the tiebreaker, it must have lost two games in regulation while Detroit has won all three games against the Devils, Panthers and Tampa Bay Lightning. It’s a relatively easy schedule for the Red Wings, with the key matchup coming against the Lightning on Monday, April 13.

The issue is within the senators. In the next three matches, the team will play the Devils, New York Islanders and Toronto Maple Leafs. That means Ottawa would have to lose to either New York and New Jersey or Toronto. This isn’t a great situation for Detroit, so his focus may be on the Boston Bruins.

Although unlikely, if the Bruins lose their last three games in regulation, the Red Wings could overtake them if they win. Boston plays Tampa Bay, New Jersey and the Columbus Blue Jackets. If the Bruins lose all three games but lose one game in overtime, Detroit can still overtake them if it wins two more games in regulation.

More than likely, the Senators will remain a target for the Red Wings. The Bruins are possible, but it would lead to a major collapse. Granted, Boston has lost its last four games, so there is something to be expected. However, it could all be over if the Red Wings don’t win.

If Detroit loses to New Jersey on Saturday while Ottawa beats New York, it could be out of playoff contention. In other words, every game moving forward is a must-win situation for the Red Wings. The team has a favorable schedule, so if it takes care of business against the Devils and Panthers, the Lightning will be a big challenge.

The Red Wings just have to keep winning. At this point, there is no margin for error.

Read More: Detroit Red Wings Fall 2026 – Why Big Changes Are Needed

Austin Konensky is a sports writer at SportsNut, covering the NHL, MLB, NFL, NBA and college football. His work…More about Austin Konensky

Benito Carbone’s football journey spans countries, cultures and generations, but one chapter still stands above all the others: Sheffield Wednesday.

Long before Inter Milan trained the youth and shaped Italy’s next generation, a teammate and a club changed everything.

It was teammate Paolo Di Canio who helped Sheffield Wednesday become a second home. Now he has explained everything to Gazzetta dello Sport.

Paolo Di Canio and the partnership that changed everything

Carbone doesn’t hesitate when he talks about Di Canio. The pair played together for one and a half seasons at the Oval, from August 1997 to September 1998.

Carbone was already at Hillsborough, having joined in October 1996. Di Canio arrived in August 1997, and the connection was immediate. First, there was the famous unveiling photo in which the pair were seen sharing an uncooked frozen pizza. Then the connection came on the pitch.

Together the two Italians formed one of the most creative and fondly remembered partnerships in Sheffield Wednesday’s modern history. In his only full season, Di Canio led the club with 14 goals, while Carbone contributed nine goals of his own.

According to the latter, the connection was immediate, intuitive and almost telepathic.

“Our families were always together, our kids were the same age,” He remembers.

“On the pitch, we understood each other immediately, just one look was enough. Di Canio was the best partner I have ever played with.”

Why did surviving Sheffield Wednesday feel like winning the title?

Yet despite the brilliance of the partnership, Sheffield Wednesday had a struggling season.

There were high expectations following Di Canio’s arrival but instead the Owls struggled for consistency. The club spent most of the campaign fighting relegation, ultimately finishing 16th and surviving by the narrowest of margins.

Most fans don’t remember it fondly, but Carbone has a different take. For the Italian, surviving Sheffield Wednesday was no footnote, it was a triumph.

“Staying at Sheffield Wednesday was like winning the title,” He adds.

An era of the Premier League that produced a footballer

Benito Carbone, perhaps, is looking back on his experiences beyond Sheffield Wednesday. His playing years in England were defined by challenges and successes.

He faced defenders such as Tony Adams, earned praise from Rio Ferdinand and built a reputation as one of the league’s most unpredictable midfielders.

At Sheffield Wednesday, he found freedom, and the partnership with Di Canio brought him joy. Purpose was also added to the fight for survival. And he fondly remembers the time when the Premier League was still being formed.

“It was not such a global league yet, but it was a very tough championship,” He concluded.

“There were a lot of English players there, and the game was all about the second ball: passing, aggression, heart. I had to face very tough defenders like Tony Adams. Rio Ferdinand once told me he didn’t sleep all night before playing against me. What a compliment!”

For Carbone, Sheffield Wednesday was never going to be just another milestone in his career.

It was where football became family and where the help of a teammate changed the course of his life. That’s why survival felt like victory, and that’s why this chapter still means everything.

For a player who keeps his personal life pretty private, Nikola Jokic offered a rare glimpse of his thoughts on his future with the Denver Nuggets.

During a recent appearance on the Serbian podcast X and O, the Denver superstar opened up about his deep love for the city that chose him. He also dismissed any speculation about his long-term future with the organization.

When asked if he could envision playing anywhere other than Denver during his career, Jokic took a firm stance.

“I wouldn’t like to imagine,” Jocque said. “I really found peace here. My two children were born here. Everyone is here. Peace, home, I found my life here. And I love life here. I don’t feel the need for it, I don’t have any desire for it. We’ve built something together as a team here.”

The timing of Jokic’s comments couldn’t be more significant. While he is technically eligible for free agency in the summer of 2027, he could be extension-eligible this offseason. League insiders widely expect him to sign a big new deal with Denver.

Aside from expressing his desire to stay in Denver long-term, the 31-year-old star has no plans to retire any time soon.

“I want to play as long as I can,” Jokic said. “As long as I’m making progress and playing at the highest level I can.”

This season, Jokic has continued his high-level play as he is averaging a triple-double with 28.8 points, 12.5 rebounds and 10.3 assists per game. He and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander remain the frontrunners for the MVP award.

Victor Wembanyama has done some incredible things in his short NBA career, but his latest accomplishment against the Los Angeles Clippers may be his toughest yet. On Friday night, the San Antonio Spurs made a miraculous 25-point comeback to defeat the Clippers 116-112, but the victory clearly pushed the young superstar to his absolute limits.

After the game, Vembanyama was not shy about the effect the competition had on his body. “I was going to pass out right from the first quarter. …This was close to being the toughest game of my life. It probably didn’t feel like it, we played a very rough game yesterday against the most physical team in the league.”

“I thought I was going to pass out…it’s close to being the hardest game of my life.”

Victor Wembanyama explains how he feels after the Spurs’ 25-point comeback over the Clippers.

(via @nba)

pic.twitter.com/NpOXh7kFvs

– ClutchPoints (@clutchpoints) 7 March 2026

Despite exhaustion, Victor Vembanyama managed to dominate in limited action. The French sensation recorded 27 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks in just 22 minutes of play. He was clinical from the floor, making 11 of 21 shots overall and missing four of his nine attempts from beyond the arc. His rim protection in the closing minutes was the catalyst for the Spurs’ late surge, as he consistently converted shots and erased easy looks for Los Angeles.

The comeback was not a solo effort. Julian Champagnie stepped up with a huge 20-point performance, while De’Aaron Fox and Stephen Cassel provided the perimeter pressure needed to overcome the deficit. San Antonio trailed by nearly 25 points before their defense tightened up and Wembanyama took over on the interior.

By scoring a 38-point masterpiece against the Detroit Pistons just 24 hours ago, the 22-year-old big man is showing the world that he has the stamina to match his generational skill set. If this was the toughest game of his life, the rest of the league should be very concerned about what he does when he feels really fresh.

BOSTON – Dozens of media members crowded around the practice court’s baseline at the Auerbach Center on Friday morning, hoping to catch a glimpse of Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum, who was officially upgraded to questionable after being listed out (due to an Achilles rupture) for the Green team’s first 62 games of the 2025-26 campaign. However, Tatum remained in the weight room and largely out of sight of the many cameras aimed at him.

Jayson Tatum talks to Derrick White while working out at the Auerbach Center: pic.twitter.com/LZUnypLOOa

– Daniel Donabedian (@danield1214) 6 March 2026

Celtics wing Sam Houser was the journeyman in the media arena. He was immediately mobbed by reporters eager for any updates on Tatum ahead of the Celtics’ Friday night showdown with the Dallas Mavericks at TD Garden. Although Houser didn’t say whether Tatum would play in less than 12 hours, he did praise him.

“Obviously he’s a really great player, great guy,” he told the media. “He does a lot of things on the basketball court that are very difficult, but he makes it look really easy.”

Sam Hauser on Jayson Tatum and what he could add to the Celtics this season:

“He takes a lot of things on the basketball court that are hard, and makes them look very easy.” pic.twitter.com/wuOsnvHs5c

– Daniel Donabedian (@danield1214) 6 March 2026

Without Tatum, the Celtics have posted a 41–21 record and are in second place in the Eastern Conference. These facts alone make it an impressive season for the C’s, but as always, they want a ring – and for that they need their missing piece.

“We only have 20 games left, so whenever that happens, it’s going to be a quick process,” Hauser said of reinserting Tatum into the lineup. “And as much grace as you want for that, we really don’t have that luxury.”

Returning from an Achilles injury is no joke in the NBA, and returning so late in the regular season presents another unique challenge. However, Hauser was not too concerned about acclimating Tatum.

“He’s been around [practice]So I think he’ll be able to fit right in,” he said. “We’ll be able to fit around him.”

There is no precedent for a second-place team adding a six-time All-Star to its roster in the midst of a playoff push. Hauser, like many of his peers, welcomed the relatively new obstacle.

He said, “We all have to figure it out right away, and it’s a good thing for us to solve the problem whenever it comes up, and sort things out on our own.” “But I think, overall, it’s positive.”

For now, Tatum is still questionable, but it’s worth noting that he said months ago that he planned to come back from the injury at home. Following Friday’s home game against the Mavericks, the Celtics will embark on a three-game road trip and will not return to Beantown until March 14.

Whether or not Tatum returns home soon, or whether he gets back on the court at all, won’t affect Hauser’s high opinion of him.

“He’s humble in who he is, his approach every day,” Hauser complimented. “He works hard, gets himself treated, he’s a good person, he’s a good father. I think that says a lot more than just the player.”