Jaylen Brown injury status uncertain for 76ers game

The Boston Celtics end their 2025-26 season with injury concerns, as Jaylen Brown’s status remains uncertain ahead of Wednesday night’s season opener against the Philadelphia 76ers. The star running back is listed as questionable with a left hamstring strain he suffered during the preseason, while Jayson Tatum is out until February with an Achilles injury.

Brown’s injury occurred during the preseason finale on Oct. 15 against the Toronto Raptors. Although described as a minor change, he left the game early and slowly worked his way back. He has completed two full practices since then, but his final status will depend on how his leg reacts during game day warm-ups.

The team took to their official X (formerly known as Twitter) account to post an injury update on Tuesday night, providing clarity up front of the Celtics’ long-awaited home opener.

“Injury report for tomorrow vs. PHI:

Jaylen Brown (left hamstring strain) – WON

Jayson Tatum (right Achilles repair) – OUT”

The Celtics depth chart is already being tested for the start of the season. With Tatum out for the long haul, Brown is expected to take complete control of the offense. He enters the year after averaging 22.2 points and 5.8 rebounds per game last season. If Brown is ruled out, Boston will likely rely on Derrick White, Peyton Pritchard and Sam Hauser to carry the load on offense.

From a tactical perspective, the Celtics can move toward a faster pace and increased ball movement. Veterans like Al Horford and rookie JD Davison could play supporting roles, while spacing and perimeter shooting become even more important. A win without Brown would show the team’s resilience. A loss could reignite questions about Boston’s early-season identity.

This season starts with more than high expectations — it starts with thinking. After being eliminated in the 2025 Eastern Conference semifinals by the New York Knicks, the Celtics return without a title but with renewed motivation. The former No. 3 overall pick in the 2016 draft will be closely watched — not just for his availability, but for any lingering effects as Boston wants to reestablish itself as a candidate for the title.