Celtics Trade for Multifaceted Forward in Deal with Grizzlies Brad Stevens and the Boston Celtics wasted no time before the NBA trade deadline, making a move to bolster their roster.
As reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, on Wednesday, the Celtics acquired forward Xavier Tillman from the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for two future second-round draft picks. According to Wojnarowski, Boston is parting with a 2027 pick (via Atlanta) and a 2030 pick (also via Atlanta).
Tillman, who was a second-round selection from Michigan State, has played in 34 games this season for Memphis, with averages of six points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. Standing at 6 feet 8 inches and weighing 245 pounds, Tillman provides valuable depth to Joe Mazzulla’s bench, capable of filling roles at both power forward and center positions. Moreover, he brings playoff experience, having participated in 18 postseason games, all with the Grizzlies. His defensive versatility, allowing him to guard multiple positions, is particularly noteworthy. A Western Conference scout likened him to former Celtics big man Aron Baynes during his time at Michigan State, as per a draft profile from MLive.com. “There are a lot of teams that are looking for guys like that who bring toughness,” remarked a scout to MLive. “I just think that’s a lost art these days when you have so many finesse big guys who are soft and don’t play hard.”
Tillman’s profile aligns well with the Celtics’ needs, especially considering the modest cost of acquisition, making him an ideal addition ahead of the trade deadline.
