Why did Jayson Tatum not start for Celtics tonight against Orlando Magic? Looking at NBA champion's absence from starting lineup

Jayson Tatum did not start for the Boston Celtics on Monday against the Orlando Magic. The defending NBA champs used the questionable tag on the All-NBA forward due to a non-Covid-related illness heading into the game. Tatum joined the warmups but was a surprising non-starter.

Legion Hoops reported the latest in his status:

“Jayson Tatum is dealing with an illness and did not start for the Celtics today.

“Tatum hasn’t been ruled out so there’s a chance he could play.”

The Magic are playing the Celtics without stars Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner and Mo Wagner. Garry Harris is also relegated to cheerleading duties because of a hamstring injury. The Cs could eventually hold out Tatum against the injury-hampered lineup of their opponents.

The Celtics removed Tatum from the injured list but held him out in the first half. He went to the locker room to start the game but returned to watch and cheer for his team. After a no-show in the first two quarters, Taco Jay likely will not play in the second half.

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Jaylen Brown led the Boston Celtics in the first half without Jayson Tatum

With Tatum sidelined with an illness, Jaylen Brown led the Boston Celtics in the first half against the Orlando Magic. The All-Star guard had 19 points, five rebounds, four assists and one steal at halftime.

Brown got plenty of help from Jrue Holiday and Derrick White. The two combined for 20 points, eight rebounds, three steals, two blocks and one assist. The defending champs led 58-43 heading into the second half.

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When will Jayson Tatum return?

After the matchup against the Magic, the Boston Celtics' next game will be against the Philadelphia 76ers on Christmas Day. Tatum could return for that marquee showdown at TD Garden.

If Taco Jay isn't cleared to play, his next opportunity to suit up for his team will be on Dec. 27 against the Indiana Pacers.