Boston Celtics Brown against the Brooklyn Nets (Image via Getty) The Boston Celtics travel to Detroit on January 19, 2026, to face the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 PM ET on MLK Day. Boston comes in at 26-15, while Detroit has been one of the league’s most consistent teams this season at 30-10.The game sets up as a contrast in availability. Boston continues to manage a long injury list, including the loss of its top scorer. Detroit, on the other hand, enters the matchup close to full strength and looking to extend a three-game winning streak at home.
Boston Celtics Injury Situation vs Detroit Pistons (January 19, 2026)
Boston Celtics will be not have Jayson Tatum on their roster tonight. This is because he is still recovering from right Achilles surgery. His absence has been a reason why the Celtics had to work on their offense and redistribute scoring responsibility across the lineup.Chris Boucher is listed as questionable with low back spasms, which could limit Boston’s frontcourt rotation. Payton Pritchard is also questionable due to left ankle soreness after recent optimism about his return. Josh Minott is out with a left ankle sprain. Two-way and G League players Ron Harper Jr., Max Shulga, and Amari Williams will not be available.
Detroit Pistons Injury Situation vs Boston Celtics (January 19, 2026)
Detroit Pistons’ injury report is short. Rookie Ron Holland II is questionable due to illness and is the only rotation player in doubt. Isaac Jones, Wendell Moore Jr., and Tolu Smith are out but are not part of the regular rotation.Key players Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren are fully available and expected to carry the workload.
On-Court Impact
With Jayson Tatum sidelined, the offensive load has shifted to Jaylen Brown, who is leading the way with 29 points and six rebounds per game. Derrick White has been a reliable presence, chipping in 18 points and four assists. Payton Pritchard’s status is important as well, since his 16.6 points and 4.5 assists play a big role in keeping Boston’s bench productive.Detroit continues to control games inside, averaging 57.1 points in the paint. Duren’s presence around the rim will test Boston’s interior defense, especially with limited frontcourt depth.PlayerTeamStatusInjurySeason Averages Jayson Tatum BOS Out Right Achilles Repair N/A Chris Boucher BOS Questionable Low Back Spasms N/A Payton Pritchard BOS Questionable Left Ankle Soreness 16.6 PTS, 4.5 AST Josh Minott BOS Out Left Ankle Sprain N/A Ron Holland II DET Questionable Illness N/A
Game Outlook
Detroit enters as a 4.5-point favorite and holds a 16-4 home record. The Pistons also lead the season series 2-1. Boston is coming off a strong win over Atlanta, but Detroit’s health and interior strength give them a clear edge heading into Monday night.