The Boston Celtics will be without their premier scorer, Jayson Tatum, once again when they host the Denver Nuggets at TD Garden on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. The team has officially ruled him out as he continues his rehabilitation following right Achilles repair surgery.
Jayson Tatum's Recovery Timeline Remains Unclear
There has been no update on Tatum's status, and he continues to be without a definitive return date. The forward underwent the surgical procedure earlier in the 2025-26 season after suffering a torn right Achilles. The Celtics' medical and coaching staff are taking an extremely cautious approach, prioritizing his long-term health over a rushed comeback. The earliest realistic possibility for his return is viewed as April 2026.
This patient strategy has found support from former NBA player Kenyon Martin, who has publicly advised the franchise to consider sitting Tatum for the entire season to mitigate any future risk. For now, the team marches on, having adapted impressively in his absence.
Boston Celtics Injury Report for January 7
The Celtics' injury list for the marquee matchup is succinct but significant. Alongside Tatum, rookie Josh Minott is out with a left ankle sprain. Three other players—Ron Harper Jr., Max Shulga, and Amari Williams—are listed out due to G League assignments.
The offensive burden has shifted decisively to All-Star Jaylen Brown, who has risen to the occasion by averaging 28.2 points per game since Tatum's injury. He is ably supported by the backcourt duo of Derrick White and Payton Pritchard. This adjusted formula has kept Boston near the summit of the Eastern Conference with a strong 23-12 record, having won eight of their last nine contests.
Denver Nuggets Also Grapple With Major Absences
The visiting Denver Nuggets are in a similar boat, dealing with a lengthy injury report that could level the playing field. Most notably, reigning MVP Nikola Jokic is out with a left knee bone bruise. Key contributors Cam Johnson (right knee) and Jonas Valanciunas (right calf) are also sidelined.
Furthermore, the Nuggets have a lengthy questionable list featuring Christian Braun, Aaron Gordon, Jamal Murray, and Tim Hardaway Jr. Despite these challenges, Denver arrives with momentum, fresh off a thrilling 125-124 overtime victory against the Philadelphia 76ers on January 5.
What to Expect in the Celtics vs Nuggets Game
With both teams deprived of their primary superstars, tonight's clash at 7 PM ET transforms from a showcase of star power into a profound test of roster depth and coaching adaptability. The outcome will likely hinge on execution, bench contributions, and which role players step up under the bright lights.
Boston's resilience will be tested against a depleted but dangerous Denver squad. The Celtics have maintained competitiveness through stout defense and Brown's consistent scoring. This game presents another opportunity for the supporting cast to prove the team's strength extends beyond its injured talisman.
