Boston Celtics’ Jayson Tatum vs Chicago Bulls (Image via Getty) The Boston Celtics will again play without Jayson Tatum on January 10 when they face the San Antonio Spurs. Tatum remains sidelined as he continues to recover from surgery on his right Achilles.His absence has shaped much of Boston’s season. With no clear return date, the team has adjusted its approach and leaned on depth rather than waiting for its star to come back.
Jayson Tatum’s Current Injury Status vs San Antonio Spurs (January 10, 2026)
Jayson Tatum tore his right Achilles during last season’s playoffs and had surgery in May 2025. Recovery from this injury usually takes nine to twelve months. That timeline places a possible return around late March 2026 at the earliest, though nothing has been confirmed.As of January 9, Tatum is officially listed as out for the Spurs game. Boston has made it clear that his rehab will not be rushed, even if it means missing most of the regular season.
How Boston Celtics are Managing Without Jayson Tatum
The Boston Celtics have stayed near the top of the Eastern Conference despite missing their leading scorer. Instead of relying on one player, the Celtics have spread the workload across the roster and focused on team defense and ball movement.Boston is not fully healthy. Josh Minott is questionable with a left ankle injury, and Chris Boucher is out due to illness. Even so, the Celtics have continued to compete by rotating players and keeping their game plan simple.
What to Expect Against San Antonio
The San Antonio Spurs face a Boston Celtics team that lacks Jayson Tatum’s scoring and wing defense but remains organized. Boston is likely to rely on outside shooting and disciplined defense to stay in control.San Antonio’s biggest edge comes inside. Victor Wembanyama gives the Spurs a clear size advantage, especially with Tatum unavailable. How Boston handles him in the paint could decide the game.Also read: NBA Player Props: Best Over and Under Picks to Target on Saturday (January 10, 2026)This matchup is less about star names and more about execution. With Tatum out, the result may come down to which team gets more from its supporting players.