Is Jayson Tatum playing tonight vs the Indiana Pacers? Latest update on the Boston Celtics star's injury report (January 21, 2026)

The Boston Celtics play host to the Indiana Pacers on January 21, 2026, at TD Garden, and the biggest storyline is still the same. Jayson Tatum will not be in the lineup. Boston has spent most of the season adjusting to life without its best player, and this game is another example of how thin the margin has become.This is the fourth meeting between these teams, and both sides already know what the other brings. Boston has been the better team overall, but Indiana has shown it can compete when the game stays close. With several key players out on both sides, this matchup comes down to execution and depth rather than star power.

Jayson Tatum's injury report vs the Indiana Pacers (January 21, 2026)

Jayson Tatum remains sidelined as he continues to recover from right Achilles surgery. The injury dates back to last May’s playoff series against the Knicks, and there is still no return timeline.

His absence has reshaped Boston’s season and forced the coaching staff to rely on a different offensive structure.

Boston is also monitoring Josh Minott, who is listed day-to-day with a left ankle issue. Indiana’s injury list is longer. Tyrese Haliburton remains out for the season with an Achilles injury of his own, and Obi Toppin is unavailable due to a foot injury.

Boston Celtics Finding Ways to Compete

Despite missing Jayson Tatum for most of the year, Boston Celtics sit at 26-16 and second in the Eastern Conference.

That record reflects steady defense and reliable contributions from the rest of the rotation rather than dominant scoring nights.Jaylen Brown has taken on the primary scoring role. In a close loss to Indiana earlier this month, he finished with 32 points and 11 rebounds and nearly carried Boston late. Derrick White continues to provide consistency, averaging 17.7 points per game and handling extra playmaking duties.

Indiana Pacers Struggling Away From Home

Indiana comes in with a 10-34 record and has struggled badly on the road. Recent losses in Detroit and Philadelphia highlighted ongoing issues with turnovers and shooting efficiency. Aaron Nesmith has gone cold from three-point range, adding to the offensive problems.One steady presence has been Pascal Siakam, who has scored at least 20 points in four straight games. Still, without Haliburton running the offense, the Pacers average just 110.1 points per game and often stall in half-court situations.Also read: Indiana Pacers vs Boston Celtics injury report: Injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (January 21, 2026)

What This Game Comes Down To

Boston Celtics lead the season series 2-1, though Indiana edged them 98-96 on January 13. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. ET. With Jayson Tatum still out, Boston needs balanced scoring and clean defense. Indiana’s path to staying close depends on Siakam controlling the paint and limiting mistakes. In a game shaped by injuries, the team that handles small details better is likely to decide the outcome.