4 Celtics on Thin Ice Heading Into the NBA Draft

The Boston Celtics won the 2024 NBA championship and raised the long-awaited 18th banner to become the winningest franchise in the league. In the NBA, however, celebrations don't last long. It's already time to get to work ahead of next season and the first stop is the 2024 NBA Draft.

The Boston Celtics have the 30th and the 54th overall selections. Considering how limited they are in terms of cap space, they are going to have to find some affordable rookies under team control for the next couple of seasons.

That also means that some members of the 2024 championship team will not be back for another season. Whether it is in free agency, trade market, or through the draft, these Celtics may find themselves squeezed out of their roles ahead of next year.

Xavier Tillman Sr.

Tillman was a valuable mid-season pickup for the Celtics last year. Acquired at the deadline in exchange for Lamar Stevens and two second-round picks, Tillman played a big part in the playoffs in Kristaps Porzingis' absence. His defensive versatility proved valuable in the NBA Finals as the 25-year-old won his first title in the NBA.

As much as the Celtics would love to bring him back for another season, there is a chance he may have played himself out of that possibility. The Celtics likely can't pay him much more than a minimum salary. Tillman, who was a second-round pick, hasn't made too much money in his career so far. If he understandably prioritizes financials, he will likely get a better deal in free agency.

Plus, backup centers are generally easier to find than other positions. The Celtics can use their draft capital to find a team-friendly replacement for Tillman.