Boston Celtics to Miss Jayson Tatum Against Brooklyn Nets on January 23, 2026
The Boston Celtics will be without their star forward Jayson Tatum when they take on the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on January 23, 2026. The game is scheduled for a 7:30 p.m. ET tip-off, with Tatum remaining sidelined as he continues his recovery from right Achilles surgery.
Jayson Tatum's Injury Status and Recovery Timeline
Tatum suffered a torn right Achilles tendon during last season's playoff series against the New York Knicks and underwent surgery in May 2025. He is now approximately eight months into his rehabilitation process. The Celtics have officially listed him as out for the upcoming game, with no concrete timeline provided for his return to active play.
Although Tatum has been observed participating in controlled workouts and light training sessions, the team has not indicated when he will be cleared for full game action. His absence has been significant, with the forward missing more than 42 games this season, leaving Boston without the elite scoring and playmaking abilities he consistently delivered in previous campaigns.
Celtics' Strong Position Despite Key Absences
Despite missing Tatum and other players, the Boston Celtics enter this matchup in a formidable position within the Eastern Conference. They are coming off a convincing 119-104 victory over the Indiana Pacers and currently hold a 26-16 record, which places them second in the conference standings.
The Celtics have relied on their depth, structured gameplay, and collective effort to maintain competitiveness while managing multiple injuries. In contrast, the Brooklyn Nets have struggled this season, posting a 12-30 record and facing challenges in building consistent momentum. Playing at home provides the Nets with an opportunity, particularly against a short-handed opponent, but the performance gap between the two teams remains evident.
Boston Celtics Lineup and Player Availability
In addition to Jayson Tatum, the Celtics will be without several other key players for the game against the Nets:
- Derrick White is resting and will not participate.
- Josh Minott is out due to a left ankle injury.
- Neemias Queta is listed as questionable because of illness.
The expected starting lineup and key rotation players for Boston include:
- Payton Pritchard (Point Guard) - Available and expected to start, responsible for running the offense.
- Jaylen Brown (Shooting Guard/Power Forward) - Available and serving as the main scoring option.
- Sam Hauser (Small Forward) - Available, providing crucial perimeter shooting and spacing.
- Jordan Walsh (Small Forward) - Available, offering rotation depth and defensive versatility.
Jaylen Brown continues to lead the offensive charge for the Celtics, while Payton Pritchard handles primary playmaking duties. Sam Hauser's three-point shooting remains vital for creating spacing and opening up the floor for his teammates.
Brooklyn Nets' Strategy and Challenges
The Brooklyn Nets are also dealing with their own injury concerns, missing Haywood Highsmith following knee surgery and several G League players. The Nets are expected to rely on a lineup featuring Egor Demin, Drake Powell, Michael Porter Jr., Noah Clowney, and Nic Claxton.
Brooklyn's interior defense, anchored by Claxton and Clowney, could pose challenges for Boston, especially if Neemias Queta is unavailable. However, the Nets have consistently struggled to convert opportunities into victories this season, facing difficulties in closing out games and maintaining offensive efficiency.
Implications for the Celtics' Season and Beyond
The Boston Celtics' ability to remain near the top of the Eastern Conference without Jayson Tatum underscores the stability and resilience of their roster. The team's focus is on maintaining their competitive edge and keeping pace in the standings until Tatum returns to full health.
A fully recovered Tatum later in the season could dramatically alter the Celtics' playoff outlook and championship aspirations. For now, Boston continues to adapt and adjust game by game, leveraging their depth and tactical discipline to navigate this challenging period.
