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The Boston Celtics will play the Utah Jazz on Monday night without Jayson Tatum. He has been ruled out again as he continues to recover from a right Achilles injury suffered during last season’s playoffs.

Tatum has not played at all this season, and there is still no clear date for his return. Boston has stayed patient with his rehab, even as fans wait for signs that he is close. For now, the team moves forward without its leading scorer as it wraps up the year in Salt Lake City.

Jayson Tatum’s Injury Status vs Utah Jazz (December 30, 2025)

Jayson Tatum is out for the December 30 game due to ongoing recovery from Achilles surgery performed in May 2025. The Boston Celtics have not suggested he is close to returning, and he remains unavailable across all recent injury reports.



Boston will also be without Chris Boucher, who is listed out for personal reasons or illness. Ron Harper Jr. and Max Shulga are with the G League, while Amari Williams is listed as a game-time decision. Even with those absences, the Celtics have managed to stay competitive.

How Jayson Tatum's Injury Happened

Jayson Tatum tore his right Achilles during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the New York Knicks last spring. The injury ended his postseason immediately and raised questions about his availability for the following season.

Achilles injuries usually require long recovery periods, often close to a full year. Although Tatum was seen running and shooting by late September, the Celtics have chosen not to rush him back. Head coach Joe Mazzulla and team president Brad Stevens have both stressed that his long-term health matters more than short-term results.

How Boston Celtics Are Coping Without Him

With Jayson Tatum out, Jaylen Brown has taken on a larger scoring role and has been producing at a high level. Derrick White has helped steady the offense with consistent scoring and playmaking, while Payton Pritchard has provided a scoring lift off the bench.

Utah enters the game with injury problems of its own. Ace Bailey is out with a hip issue, Walker Kessler remains sidelined after shoulder surgery, and Georges Niang is out with a foot injury. Keyonte George is questionable due to illness.

What Comes Next for Tatum

There is still no set timeline for Tatum’s return. Some believe he could play later in the season if Boston Celtics are in playoff position, while others think the team may hold him out for the entire year.

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Until that decision becomes clearer, the Boston Celtics will continue relying on depth and structure while waiting for their star to be fully ready.