Is Jayson Tatum playing tonight vs the Chicago Bulls? Latest update on the Boston Celtics staar's injury report (January 5, 2026)

Jayson Tatum is not playing tonight against the Chicago Bulls on January 5, 2026. He remains out as he continues to recover from surgery on his right Achilles tendon. The decision is not new and has been consistent across pregame injury reports for this matchup at TD Garden.Boston has adjusted to life without its top scorer for most of the season. The team enters the game in good form, relying on a healthy rotation and steady play on both ends of the floor. Chicago, meanwhile, comes in dealing with several injuries of its own, adding another layer to an already uneven matchup.

Why Jayson Tatum Is Still Out

Jayson Tatum ruptured his right Achilles in Game 4 of last season’s Eastern Conference semifinal loss to the New York Knicks.

He had surgery in May 2025 and has been rehabbing since. Achilles recoveries usually take most of a year, and Boston has stayed cautious throughout the process.

There has been visible progress. Tatum was able to dunk and move well in workouts by October. Still, the team has made it clear that he is not ready for game action. Celtics president Brad Stevens has said a return later in the 2026 season is possible, but no date has been set.

How Boston Celtics Has Managed Without Him

The Boston Celtics are 22-12 and riding a three-game win streak. Their last game was a blowout win over the Clippers, powered by a 50-point night from Jaylen Brown. Brown has taken on a larger role and leads the offense, averaging just over 30 points per game.Derrick White has been steady on both ends, while Payton Pritchard and Neemias Queta have filled minutes and kept the rotation stable. Defensively, Boston has remained among the league’s best, which has helped offset Tatum’s absence.

Chicago’s Situation Tonight

The Bulls enter the game at 17-18 and short-handed. Josh Giddey, Jalen Smith, and Zach Collins are all out, while Coby White is listed as probable. Chicago has won several recent road games but faces a tough test in Boston.Also read: Chicago Bulls vs Boston Celtics at TD Garden: Full injury report, viewing guide, odds & game breakdown (Jan 5, 2026)The main matchup features DeMar DeRozan against Brown. With Jayson Tatum unavailable, Chicago can focus more on slowing Brown, but Boston’s depth makes that difficult. The Bulls are underdogs, and the game is expected to be played at a fast pace with plenty of scoring opportunities.