Jayson Tatum (Image Credits: Imagn)

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

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports
By Debmallya Chakraborty | Last updated Apr 12, 2026 12:19 PM ET

Jayson Tatum had an early return to the NBA following his ACL injury. And despite rumors swirling about his chemistry with Jaylen Brown, the duo has propelled the Boston Celtics to the playoffs. Now, as the team is getting ready to face off against the Orlando Magic, questions regarding the 28-year-old’s availability are doing the rounds.

According to the report, the Celtics will be without most of their stars against the Magic. Alongside Tatum, the likes of Brown, Derrick White, and Neemias Queta are all out. And if that wasn’t enough, Sam Hauser, Nikola Vucevic, and Payton Pritchard are doubtful for the game.

Now, while the fans will miss watching the 28-year-old, this might not be something serious. With the team already qualified as the second seed from the East, management does not want to take on any additional risk. Coming back to Tatum, the Missouri-born might not feel up to the mark with his performance. But his numbers are saying something else.

Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Neemias Queta, and Derrick White are all OUT tomorrow vs. the Magic.

Payton Pritchard, Sam Hauser, and Nikola Vucevic are DOUBTFUL.
— Daniel Donabedian (@danield1214) April 11, 2026

Since his return, the 6-time NBA All-Star has averaged 21.8 points and 10.0 rebounds. However, despite his stellar form, the only question mark that remains is with the 6ft 8in star’s shooting.

Will Jayson Tatum’s Shooting Woes Cause A Problem For The Boston Celtics?

16 games into his return, the 2017 third overall pick has a 13-3 record. So far, things have really looked promising for the Celtics’ star. But his shooting still remains a point of concern. He has been shooting 41.1% from the field and 32.9% from the three-point mark. And both of these numbers are career lows.

Now, while this might be a pain point, the impact is expected to be minimal. In his last game against the New York Knicks, Tatum dropped 24 points and eight assists in 40 minutes. Moreover, with Joe Mazzulla showing his trust, the fans are ready to see how the 2023 NBA All-Star Game MVP fares in the playoffs.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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