The Boston Celtics seem like positioning themselves for a possible famous person addition that would reshape their championship aspirations.
With each Jayson Tatum and Damian Lillard recovering from Achilles accidents, their shared rehabilitation journey could also be creating an surprising alternative for Boston’s entrance workplace.
The connection between the 2 stars has reportedly advanced past their Crew USA partnership, with Tatum actively pursuing his fellow All-Star.
“Jayson Tatum has been recruiting Damian Lillard to hitch the Celtics, per Gary Washburn,” NBA Central shared.
Jayson Tatum has been recruiting Damian Lillard to hitch the Celtics, per @GwashburnGlobe pic.twitter.com/W3A0PPUxdh
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 13, 2025
Lillard’s availability stems from a shocking transfer by the Milwaukee Bucks, who waived the nine-time All-Star and stretched his large contract over 5 years.
The choice cleared monetary area for Milwaukee to pursue different targets, together with their current signing of Myles Turner to a four-year deal value $107 million.
Regardless of tearing his Achilles throughout the 2025 playoffs, Lillard stays a pretty possibility for contending groups.
His manufacturing final season speaks for itself, averaging 24.9 factors and seven.1 assists throughout 58 video games whereas cementing his place because the fourth-leading three-point shooter in NBA historical past.
The monetary construction makes this partnership notably interesting for Boston.
With Milwaukee nonetheless accountable for a portion of Lillard’s wage by means of the stretch provision, the Celtics might purchase a future Corridor of Famer utilizing both the veteran minimal or their $5.7 million mid-level exception.
For Lillard, becoming a member of forces with Tatum provides the possibility to contribute to a championship-caliber group whereas recovering from his damage.
Furthermore, the timing aligns completely with each gamers’ rehabilitation schedules, probably making a synchronized return that would elevate Boston’s title hopes considerably.
NEXT: Celtics May Have Reunion With Former Participant