Jayson Tatum Injury Update: Will Celtics Star Play Tonight vs. 76ers?

Jayson Tatum (Image Credits: Imagn)

Jayson Tatum Injury Update: Will Celtics Star Play Tonight vs. 76ers?

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports
By Debmallya Chakraborty | Last updated Apr 21, 2026 11:36 AM ET

Just a year ago, Jayson Tatum’s ACL injury happened. Back then, it did not seem possible that the Boston Celtics’ star would be back playing this year’s playoffs. Pulling off a recovery that has even impressed LeBron James, the 28-year-old is dominating the league. With game 1 done and dusted, it’s now time for game 2. But will Tatum play?

Well, the 2024 NBA champion looks in ominous touch. And thankfully for his team, Tatum is all fit and fine to suit up against the Philadelphia 76ers. Ahead of the first game, the 6-time NBA All-Star had a confident exchange with fellow teammate Derrick White. Playing in the game, the confidence was evident as the 28-year-old star dropped 25 points to take the game away from the 76ers.

"I always appreciated it and was excited for it… but my appreciation level obviously went up."

It has been a long road back for @jaytatum0, and he is ready to take on the challenge of leading the @celtics to another title!

25p, 11r, 7a for JT in last night's Game 1 win pic.twitter.com/VRFISNozrK
— NBA (@NBA) April 20, 2026

Teaming up with Jaylen Brown, the Celtics’ small forward is making life a nightmare for his opponents. Delivering yet another impressive showing, Tatum and Brown reached an elite milestone. The duo became only the second pair in Boston’s history to reach their 50th playoff game while scoring a minimum of 20 points.

Brown complimented Tatum as he dropped 26 points on the night. Before them, only Kevin McHale and Larry Bird were able to match the record. Meanwhile, as Boston will look to make it 2-0, the Missouri-born extended his heartfelt praise to the fans.

Jayson Tatum Impressed With The Energy Of Boston Celtics’ Fans

The 28-year-old recently explained his early return from injury. Since his return, the 2024 NBA champion has averaged 21.8 points, 10 rebounds, and 5.3 assists. Now, while it is true that the Celtics’ star worked hard for his success, he also wanted to credit the fans’ support. Following game 1 of the postseason, the 6-foot-8 detailed how much he has missed the fans.

“We have a tremendous crowd, and you know, obviously missing 60 some odd games, you know, I miss playing in front of our home crowd and, just the opportunity again to play, play here in the playoffs is special and, you know, something I’ll never take for granted,” said Tatum.

Jayson Tatum gives Celtics fan nothing but love after Game 1:

“We have a tremendous crowd, and you know, obviously missing 60 some odd games, you know, I miss playing in front of our home crowd and, just the opportunity again to play, play here in the playoffs is special and,… pic.twitter.com/0vbkwtrltw
— Celtics on CLNS (@CelticsCLNS) April 19, 2026