Report: Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum downgraded to questionable for Game 7 vs. 76ers

TL;DR

Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics has been downgraded to questionable for Game 7 against the Philadelphia 76ers due to knee stiffness. His potential absence raises concerns for the Celtics' chances in the playoffs.

Key points

Jayson Tatum downgraded to questionable for Game 7
Tatum dealing with knee stiffness
Concerns about compensatory injury related to Achilles
Celtics face tough challenge against 76ers
Advancing in playoffs unlikely without Tatum

Boston CelticsPhiladelphia 76ersJayson TatumNew York Knicks

The Boston Celtics might have themselves an even bigger challenge than they were expecting against the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 7 of their 2026 NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs first round series. According to NBA on Prime reporter Chris Haynes, star Celtics forward Jayson Tatum has been downgraded for tonight's tilt at TD Garden vs. the Sixers on the team's latest injury report. Per Haynes, the St. Louis native is dealing with knee stiffness, which may be what Tatum exited Game 6 in the second half of Boston's recent road loss to Philly, causing many to speculate as to whether he is dealing with a compensatory injury related to the Achilles tendon injury he suffered last postseason, given it was the other leg. The Celtics will be hard-pressed to take on this resurgent 76ers squad without the Duke alum, but that does not mean all hope is lost if Tatum does sit for the game.

Mar 31, 2025; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla talks with Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) during the fourth quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images But should Boston advance to face the New York Knicks in the East semis, it would be very unlikely that the Celtics could advance without Tatum being close to full strength. Listen to "Havlicek Stole the Pod" on: Blue Wire: iTunes: YouTube: *This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: *

Q&A

Why is Jayson Tatum questionable for Game 7 against the 76ers?

Jayson Tatum is questionable due to knee stiffness, which may be related to an Achilles tendon injury he suffered last postseason.

What impact will Tatum's absence have on the Celtics in Game 7?

Without Tatum, the Celtics face a significant challenge against the 76ers, potentially jeopardizing their playoff advancement.

What are the Celtics' chances of advancing without Tatum in the playoffs?

If Tatum is unable to play, the Celtics' chances of advancing to face the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals would be greatly diminished.