Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (Image via AP Photo/Charles Krupa) The Boston Celtics will be without Jayson Tatum again when they play the Portland Trail Blazers on Saturday night. Tatum remains sidelined as he continues to recover from a right Achilles injury suffered in last season’s playoffs. There is still no return date, and the team has not ruled out the possibility that he does not play at all this season.Boston has operated under this reality since opening night. With no clear timeline, the Celtics have focused on managing games and minutes without expecting help from their top scorer anytime soon.
How Jayson Tatum’s Injury Occurred
Jayson Tatum tore his right Achilles tendon during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the New York Knicks last May. He collapsed late in the game and was unable to put weight on the leg. Surgery followed shortly after, ending his postseason run.The 27-year-old missed training camp and all early-season practices. He has remained out throughout the regular season, including Saturday’s game in Portland. Around the league, the expectation is that he will miss most, if not all, of the 2025–26 season as the Celtics take a cautious approach.
Boston Celtics’ Record Without Jayson Tatum
Even without Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics have stayed near the top of the East. The Celtics enter the game with a 19–11 record, good for third place in the conference. They have won 12 of their last 16 games by spreading the scoring load and maintaining defensive consistency.Jaylen Brown has carried much of the offense. He is averaging 29.4 points per game, the highest mark of his career, and has scored at least 30 points in every game this month. Sam Hauser has also contributed, recently scoring 23 points while hitting seven three-pointers in a win over Indiana.
Game Outlook Against Portland Trail Blazers (December 28, 2025)
Boston Celtics are looking for its 20th win of the season against a Portland team that has lost three straight home games. The Trail Blazers have allowed more than 110 points in each of those losses.Deni Avdija led Portland in its most recent game with 29 points, nine rebounds, and nine assists in a loss to the Clippers. Portland remains short-handed, with Jrue Holiday out due to a calf injury, Jerami Grant sidelined by an Achilles issue, and Robert Williams III unavailable because of a knee injury.Boston has won the last three meetings between the teams.Also read: Boston Celtics vs Portland Trail Blazers regular season game: Full injury report, who’s out, where to watch, and more (December 28, 2025)
Jayson Tatum’s Status Going Forward
Tatum continues to work through rehab and has acknowledged the slow pace of recovery from an Achilles injury. He has not returned to full team activity, and the Celtics have avoided setting expectations. Until that changes, Boston will continue to rely on its current rotation to stay competitive in the standings.