Jayson Tatum's play has played a major part of the Boston Celtics' hot start to the season that has them sitting atop of the league with the best record in the league.

Ahead of the road matchup against the San Antonio Spurs on Friday night, Tatum did not travel with the team, but is still expected to take the court, according to Chris Forsberg of ESPN.

The 19-year-old has stepped up and excelled in a major role in the starting lineup in place of All-Star forward Gordon Hayward, averaging 14 points on 50.8 percent shooting from the field along with a league-best 51.9 percent from beyond the arc. He has also tallied the fourth-most points (375) for a rookie in franchise history through the first 26 games played.

Article Continues Below
More Boston Celtics News
Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7), guard Jrue Holiday (4) and guard Derrick White (9) react after a play against the New York Knicks in the second half at TD Garden.
Celtics rumors: Boston evaluating Jaylen Brown, Derrick White trade interestRishav Bhat ·
Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (8) shoots a free throw during the first half against the Charlotte Hornets at TD Garden.
Kristaps Porzingis trade grades after stunning Hawks-Celtics dealZachary Howell ·
Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (8) shoots a free throw against the Atlanta Hawks during the first half at State Farm Arena.
Hawks acquiring Kristaps Porzingis in 3-team trade with Celtics, NetsBenedetto Vitale ·
NBA rumors: Multiple teams have 'significant interest' in Jaylen Brown trade, Boston Celtics
NBA rumors: Multiple teams have ‘significant interest’ in Jaylen Brown tradeChris Spiering ·
Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (8) warms up before the start of game two of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the New York Knicks at TD Garden.
The next trade Celtics must make after Jrue Holiday-Anfernee Simons swap with BlazersZachary Howell ·
NBA rumors: Warriors among teams linked to Kristaps Porzingis trade with Celtics
NBA rumors: Warriors among teams linked to Kristaps Porzingis trade with CelticsChris Spiering ·

Tatum has provided a consistent scoring punch for the Celtics, scoring in double figures in all but three games while also posting three 20-point outings.

His ability to quickly come in and comfortably become a dependable offensive contributor has been a key part of Boston's early-season success.

It has also made it clear that he has a bright future ahead of him and could develop into one of the premier scorers in the league over the next couple of seasons. If he can remain healthy, there is an opportunity for him to make his mark in the league.