Celtics to Miss Tatum Again in Miami Clash
The Boston Celtics will play without their star forward Jayson Tatum when they visit the Miami Heat on Thursday, January 15, 2026. The game takes place at Kaseya Center in Miami. Tatum continues his rehabilitation from a serious Achilles injury and has not received medical clearance to return to action.
This marks another game in an extended stretch where Boston must compete without their leading scorer. The Celtics have managed to stay near the top of the Eastern Conference standings despite Tatum's prolonged absence. His missing presence remains a significant storyline every time Boston takes the court without him.
Understanding Tatum's Injury Situation
Jayson Tatum suffered a torn right Achilles tendon during Game 4 of last season's Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks. The injury occurred during the 2025 playoffs. Tatum underwent surgery in May 2025 and has missed most of the current 2025-26 NBA season as a result.
The Celtics star has shown steady progress in his recovery. By October 2025, he had returned to the gym for agility work and controlled dunking exercises. Despite these positive signs, Boston's medical staff maintains a cautious approach. Achilles tendon recoveries typically require nine to twelve months for full rehabilitation.
The team has not announced any specific return date for Tatum. Celtics president Brad Stevens has indicated that a late-season return remains possible but cannot be guaranteed at this stage.
Boston's Success Without Their Star Player
The Boston Celtics enter this matchup with an impressive 24-15 record, placing them third in the Eastern Conference standings. The team has achieved this success through depth and strong defensive play rather than relying on a single dominant scorer.
Jaylen Brown has expanded his role significantly in Tatum's absence. Brown currently averages a career-high 29.5 points per game. After starting the season with a 5-7 record, Boston has compiled an 18-8 run that demonstrates their resilience.
Several other Celtics players have stepped up their performances. Derrick White and Payton Pritchard are both enjoying their most productive professional seasons. Center Neemias Queta has provided consistent minutes and reliable play in the middle.
Boston ranks third in the entire NBA for net rating, showing their effectiveness on both offense and defense despite missing their primary scoring threat.
Miami Heat Also Dealing With Injuries
The Miami Heat face their own injury challenges heading into this contest. Forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. carries a questionable designation due to a knee issue. Guard Davion Mitchell remains out with a shoulder injury, while forward Josh Minott sits with both hamstring and ankle problems.
Miami has struggled recently, losing three of their last four games. Several of these losses have come by substantial margins. Guard Tyler Herro recently returned from a toe injury and has posted strong plus-minus numbers when playing, but Miami's lineup has lacked stability.
Game Details and Broadcast Information
The Celtics versus Heat game tips off at 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Boston enters as a 2.5-point road favorite according to sportsbooks. The total points line sits at 235.5 points for the contest.
Jaylen Brown's outstanding season has earned him consideration in early Most Valuable Player discussions, with some sportsbooks listing him at +3500 odds for the award.
Tonight's matchup will air on multiple regional sports networks. Viewers can watch on FanDuel Sports Network Sun and NBC Sports Boston. With Tatum still unavailable, attention focuses on how long Boston can maintain their winning ways without their primary offensive weapon.
