Is Jayson Tatum playing tonight vs the Indiana Pacers? Latest update on the Boston Celtics star's injury report (January 12, 2026)

The Boston Celtics will be without their top scorer again on January 12 when they face the Indiana Pacers on the road. Jayson Tatum has been ruled out, extending an absence that has defined much of Boston’s season.

The game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse brings together two teams moving in opposite directions. Boston remains near the top of the Eastern Conference despite injuries. Indiana, dealing with its own setbacks, is trying to stay competitive with a short-handed roster.

Why is Jayson Tatum not playing tonight vs the Indiana Pacers (January 12, 2026)

Jayson Tatum is still recovering from a torn ACL suffered earlier in the 2025–26 season. The injury followed lingering Achilles issues from last year’s playoffs. His status for the Pacers game is officially listed as out, and there has been no update suggesting a return is close.



Even without Tatum for most of the season, Boston has managed to stay steady. The Celtics enter the game with a 24–14 record, which places them third in the Eastern Conference.

Boston Celtics adjusting without their leading scorer

Boston has leaned on balance and depth in Tatum’s absence. Jaylen Brown has taken on a larger role and is averaging career highs of 29.5 points and 5.0 assists. He is listed as questionable for this game due to a lower back issue.

Payton Pritchard has handled more responsibility at point guard, while Derrick White continues to be a steady presence on both ends of the floor. Sam Hauser is also questionable with a hamstring injury. Boston brings a road win streak into Indiana despite these concerns.

Indiana Pacers dealing with major absences

Indiana is also missing its top player. Tyrese Haliburton is out with an ACL injury, leaving a major gap in the Pacers’ offense. Indiana enters the game at 8–31 and will rely on Pascal Siakam, along with Aaron Nesmith and T.J. McConnell, to carry the load.

Game outlook

Boston is heavily favored, even on the road. With both teams missing key scorers, expectations point toward a lower-scoring game. Indiana has gone over 225.5 total points in only 22 of its 39 games this season.

Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. ET. While Tatum remains out, the matchup offers another look at how Boston continues to win without its star.


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