The Boston Celtics have had a busy offseason, keeping their core players together after winning the NBA championship in 2024. The latest player to re-sign with the team is Xavier Tillman, who has agreed to a two-year contract. Tillman is a 25-year-old big man who was acquired from the Memphis Grizzlies before the trade deadline last season and proved to be a valuable asset for the Celtics.
In the regular season, Tillman averaged 5.3 points and 3.9 rebounds per game. However, he stepped up especially during the playoffs when Kristaps Porzingis was sidelined due to injury. In Game 1 of the NBA Finals, Tillman made significant contributions with rebounds, blocks, and even a key 3-pointer that energized the crowd at TD Garden.
As Porzingis is expected to be out until November or December and Al Horford needs rest, Tillman will play a crucial role in Boston’s frontcourt rotation. The Celtics have also made moves to retain other key players such as exercising Sam Hauser’s team option, re-signing Luke Kornet and Neemias Queta, and extending contracts for Jayson Tatum and Derrick White.
The offseason is not yet over for the Celtics as they still have a few free agents left to address, including Oshae Brissett, Svi Mykhailiuk, JD Davison, and Drew Peterson (restricted). The team is looking to build on their championship success and remain competitive in the upcoming season.
In conclusion, Xavier Tillman has been an essential addition to the Boston Celtics since joining them last season. His versatility on both offense and defense makes him a valuable asset for any team looking to compete at the highest level of basketball. With his re-signing coupled with other key player signings like Sam Hauser and Luke Kornet’s extension deals; it seems like Boston is set up for another successful campaign next year.
