The Boston Celtics cruised through the regular season without their top player in superstar Jayson Tatum and are still positioned for a top seed in the playoffs. Boston eclipsed 50-wins for the fifth consecutive season and clinched the playoffs for the 12th consecutive season.

Team President of Basketball Operations, Brad Stevens, acquired veteran Nikola Vucevic at the trade deadline to support the Celtics’ frontcourt. However, Vucevic only lasted 12-games before requiring surgery for a fractured finger. He’s played in 12-games and has missed the last 13-games.

During shootaround in Miami on Wednesday, Tatum told reporters that Vucevic is working hard to get back on the court soon and to be available for the playoffs.

“Vooch has been working his ass off. He’ll be back soon, I hope.”

A healthy Vucevic in the playoffs should have a positive impact on the offense. Although Neemias Queta has been most improved this season, the Celtics don’t have a big-man shooting threat without Kristaps Porzingis or Al Horford anymore.

With Vucevic on the court, it gives the Celtics more opportunity to stretch the floor, as opposing defenses must respect Vucevic’s shooting ability, which creates space for Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Vucevic also offers a presence in the low-post.

Vucevic’s return will likely have an impact on Luka Garza, who saw an increase in minutes and overall production during the time that Vucevic has been out. Garza saw 10.9 minutes per game in February and 17.7 minutes per game in March. He is also having a career year across the board in his first season with Boston.

In a short time with the Celtics, Vucevic is averaging 10.4 points on 44/35/82 shooting splits with 7.2 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game. His return will be important for the Celtics in the playoffs as he brings a different style to the position for Boston.

With only seven games remaining in the regular season, it would be ideal for Vucevic to get back on the court before the playoffs.