Celtics' Jaylen Brown Rallies Team Amid Tatum Injury

Boston forward posts optimistic message about team's performance despite key player's absence.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Despite the absence of star forward Jayson Tatum due to an Achilles injury, the Boston Celtics have exceeded expectations at the NBA All-Star break. Team leader Jaylen Brown took to social media to express pride in the group's performance and optimism about the second half of the season.

Why it matters

The Celtics were widely doubted entering the season with Tatum sidelined, but Brown's message suggests the team has found a way to remain competitive in the Eastern Conference playoff race. Their success could have major implications for the NBA landscape if they are able to make a deep postseason run without their All-NBA caliber teammate.

The details

Despite a 15-40 record, the Indiana Pacers were expected to struggle this season after losing star guard Tyrese Haliburton to injury. In contrast, the Celtics have exceeded expectations, sitting in playoff position at the All-Star break. Brown's social media post highlighted the team's strong performance, hinting that they may be poised for a second-half surge.

  • The 2025-2026 NBA season is currently at the All-Star break.
  • Jayson Tatum has been out for a large portion of the season, if not all of it, due to an Achilles injury.

The players

Jaylen Brown

A forward for the Boston Celtics who has emerged as a team leader in the absence of Jayson Tatum.

Jayson Tatum

An All-NBA forward for the Boston Celtics who has missed significant time this season due to an Achilles injury.

Nikola Vucevic

A veteran center acquired by the Celtics at the trade deadline to provide frontcourt depth and support during Tatum's absence.

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What they’re saying

“I'm proud of this group and staff/ office looking forward to 2nd half go Cs”

— Jaylen Brown (Instagram)

What’s next

The Celtics will return from the All-Star break on February 19 to take on the Golden State Warriors, as they look to maintain their playoff position in the Eastern Conference without Tatum.

The takeaway

Jaylen Brown's optimistic message highlights the Celtics' resilience in the face of adversity, suggesting the team may be poised for a strong second-half push despite the absence of their All-NBA forward Jayson Tatum. The Celtics' ability to remain competitive could have major implications for the NBA landscape if they are able to make a deep postseason run without their star player.