6 Celtics Playing Their Final Series in Boston

By Ryan Bunton | Jun 12, 2024

Jun 9, 2024; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics center Al Horford (42) and guard Derrick White (9) and forward Jayson Tatum (0) celebrate after defeating the Dallas Mavericks in game two of the 2024 NBA Finals at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports / David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

2 of 5

5. Xavier Tillman

Acquired by the Boston Celtics from the Memphis Grizzlies just ahead of the trade deadline, Tillman was a classic case of taking on a player with an expiring contract to bolster a roster for a playoff run. The Celtics sent Lamar Stevens and two second-rounders in exchange for the former 35th overall pick.

Tillman's contract expires this offseason, he hasn't shown a ton that will make Brad Stevens eager to re-up him going into next season. The team did give up draft capital to acquire him, so maybe they show more patience than they otherwise would.

He has only averaged 8.3 minutes, 1.3 rebounds, and 1 point per game during the C's playoff run. If Tillman is still in a Celtics uniform in 2024-25, it will likely be because Boston's brass has faith in his ability to continuously improve (as he is still only 25) and the forward is willing to return to the team on a low contract number.

Home/Boston Celtics