Is Jayson Tatum playing tonight vs the Sacramento Kings? Latest update on the Boston Celtics star's injury report (January 1, 2026)

Jayson Tatum will not play tonight against the Sacramento Kings. The Boston Celtics forward is still recovering from right Achilles repair surgery and remains listed as out on the NBA injury report dated January 1, 2026. He has not appeared in a game this season.

Boston still arrives in Sacramento with a 20-12 record and sits third in the Eastern Conference. The team has stayed afloat without Tatum, leaning on steady production from Jaylen Brown and Derrick White to keep pace in a crowded playoff race.

Jayson Tatum’s Status vs Sacramento Kings (January 1, 2026)

Jayson Tatum’s absence is tied to Achilles repair surgery, a recovery that has kept him off the court since the season began. He is officially listed as OUT for the January 2 game at Golden 1 Center, which tips at 10:00 p.m. ET. There have been no updates pointing to a return, and all reports continue to note that he has yet to suit up this year.

Boston Celtics’ Injury Report and Expected Starters vs Sacramento Kings (January 1, 2026)

Boston’s injury report is otherwise short. Chris Boucher is listed as questionable for personal reasons, while Ron Harper Jr., Max Shulga, and Amari Williams are unavailable due to G League assignments.


Based on that, Boston is expected to start Payton Pritchard, Derrick White, Jaylen Brown, Jordan Walsh, and Neemias Queta. Without Tatum, the Celtics have leaned on team offense and a structured defense instead of playing through one primary scorer.

Sacramento Kings Dealing With Major Absences vs Celtics (January 1, 2026)

Sacramento comes into the game at 8-25 and is still dealing with a long injury list. Zach LaVine will not play because of a left ankle sprain, while Domantas Sabonis remains out as he recovers from a partial meniscus tear in his left knee. Dylan Cardwell, Daeqwon Plowden, and Isaiah Stevens are also unavailable, as all three are with the team’s G League affiliate.

Those absences have limited lineup continuity and made it difficult for the Kings to gain traction, even at home.

Boston Celtics Staying Competitive Without Their Star

Boston has stayed competitive by leaning on everyone, not just one player. Jaylen Brown has taken on more of the scoring responsibility, while Derrick White has quietly done his job on both offense and defense. That balance has helped the Celtics remain near the top of the Eastern Conference even with Jayson Tatum out.

Also read: Boston Celtics vs Sacramento Kings regular season game: Full injury report, who's out, where to watch, and more (January 1, 2025)

There is still no clear timeline for Tatum’s return following Achilles surgery. For now, Boston continues to rely on depth and discipline, while Sacramento looks for healthier days to reset its season.