This offseason, the Boston Celtics will probably concentrate on negotiating contracts extensions for Derrick White and Jayson Tatum. Xavier Tillman, who was acquired in the middle of the season, will be among their free agents.
Tillman may depart Boston after six months, but he may have made a long-term hint to stay during their championship parade.
In an interview with WBZ’s Dan Roche, Tillman made a suggestion that he might stick with the Celtics. To Roche’s question about how much he wanted to repeat, Tillman said, “Very badly.” The parade was among the “top-five experiences of my life,” according to him as well.
Tillman did not state clearly that he intended to sign a new contract with the Celtics. In fairness, he was just responding to an immediate question, but the Celtics gave him a chance to win a championship, and it would be tempting to win another one.
At the NBA Trade Deadline, Tillman was acquired by the Celtics from the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for Lamar Stevens. He made 20 appearances for the Celtics during the regular season. It’s not much, averaging four points and 2.7 rebounds per game. Tillman’s shooting percentage increased from 40.8% to 51.5%, though.
Xavier Tillman’s Finest Moment for the Celtics
During the Celtics’ playoff run, Tillman didn’t receive consistent playing time. However, when he did play, he really made an impact, especially in Game 3 of the NBA Finals against the Dallas Mavericks.
In the absence of Kristaps Porzingis, Tillman stepped up to help the Celtics potentially go up 3-0. His 11 minutes on the court not only gave Al Horford some rest but also positively influenced the team. With a plus/minus of plus-nine, his impact was evident, particularly in his solid defense against Luka Doncic, who tried to exploit matchups with him.
The Celtics did not often showcase Tillman during the playoffs, but whenever they did, he managed to make an impact, especially in Game 3 of the NBA Finals against the Dallas Mavericks.
Tillman didn’t see consistent action in the Celtics’ playoff journey, but whenever he did play, he managed to make an impact. This was especially evident in Game 3 of the NBA Finals against the Dallas Mavericks.
Remaining with the Celtics might also lead to increased playing time for Tillman on a team that competes in the playoffs. As Al Horford gets older, the Celtics could offer Tillman a more significant role.
Boston’s One Advantage With Xavier Tillman’s Free Agency
The Celtics may encounter difficulties with Tillman’s unrestricted free agency as they are likely to surpass the NBA’s second tax apron. However, they have his bird rights, enabling them to offer him more than the veteran’s minimum. Re-signing him is also expected to come with a reasonable cost.
Although his next contract may result in increased luxury tax penalties, Tillman has proven to be invaluable to the Celtics. Another challenge arises with Luke Kornet set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2024. Kornet has shown significant development during his four seasons with the Celtics, contributing effectively alongside Tillman as a backup big man.
The Celtics may face an issue with Tacko Fall becoming an unrestricted free agent because they are expected to exceed the NBA’s second tax apron. Nevertheless, they have his bird rights, allowing them to provide a higher offer than the veteran’s minimum. Re-signing him is also likely to be an affordable option for the team.
