Celtics' Tatum set to return after 5-game absence

TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 04: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics drives to the basket against the Toronto Raptors on January 4, 2021 at Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2021 NBAE
Scott Audette / National Basketball Association / Getty

Jayson Tatum is no longer listed on the Boston Celtics injury report ahead of Monday's game versus the Chicago Bulls. However, guards Kemba Walker, Payton Pritchard, and Romeo Langford won't suit up for the contest.

It'll be the 2020 All-Star's first appearance since Jan. 8 after reportedly testing positive for COVID-19. The Celtics went 2-3 in the five games without the 6-foot-8 forward, including a three-game slide that saw them get blown out by the New York Knicks at home and lose twice on the road against the Philadelphia 76ers.

In 10 appearances this season, Tatum has averaged 26.9 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. He's also shot 43.8% from beyond the 3-point arc, the third-highest mark in the league among players taking eight or more long-range attempts per game.

The Celtics have outscored opponents by 6.2 points per 100 possessions when Tatum's been on the floor this season. Without Tatum in the game, Boston has been outperformed by 0.7 points per 100 possessions.

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