Is Jayson Tatum playing tonight vs Philadelphia 76ers? Latest update on the Boston Celtics star’s injury report (October 22, 2025)

Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum will not be suiting up tonight as his team opens the 2025–26 NBA season against the Philadelphia 76ers on October 22. The franchise cornerstone remains sidelined while recovering from a torn right Achilles tendon he suffered during last season’s Eastern Conference semifinals.

The Celtics’ official injury report lists him as “out,” confirming that his recovery process is still ongoing.

Jayson Tatum's Injury Status as of October 22, 2025

The nature of Jayson Tatum’s injury demands extensive rehabilitation, and Boston has chosen to take an extremely careful approach regarding his return. Team officials have stressed that the 27-year-old will only come back once he has been medically cleared and fully recovered. Boston Celtics CEO Wyc Grousbeck recently reiterated that point in an interview, making it clear that no timeline will override the team’s medical evaluations.

Jayson Tatum’s Progress and Team’s Cautious Stance

Despite his absence, Jayson Tatum has been proactive in his recovery journey, sharing workout videos and clips of himself dunking, which have provided hope to fans eager to see him back on the court. However, the organization continues to emphasize patience, prioritizing long-term health over short-term gains. As things stand, Tatum is expected to miss the majority - if not all - of the 2025-26 season.

Jaylen Brown’s Status Adds More Uncertainty

Boston’s challenges don’t stop there. Jaylen Brown, the team’s other star, has been listed as questionable for tonight’s matchup due to a left hamstring strain.

His availability will likely be a game-time decision, adding a layer of uncertainty to the Celtics’ lineup for the opener.

Boston Celtics Rely on Depth During Jayson Tatum’s Absence

Without Jayson Tatum leading the charge, Boston will need its depth players to step up early in the season. The team is expected to rely heavily on key contributors and rotational players to fill the void as they navigate the campaign without their top scorer and emotional leader.Also read: Is Karl-Anthony Towns playing tonight vs Cleveland Cavaliers? Latest update on the New York Knicks star's injury report (October 22, 2025)

Long-Term Outlook and Championship Implications

For Boston Celtics fans, the anticipation surrounding Tatum’s return continues to build. The organization’s deliberate approach underscores the seriousness of an Achilles injury and the potential long-term consequences of a rushed comeback. While the decision to sit Tatum for an extended period could dampen the team’s championship hopes this season, it also reflects a commitment to ensuring he returns at full strength when the time is right.