Brad Stevens and the Celtics are on the board.
The Boston Celtics are sending two second-round picks and Lamar Stevens to the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for big man Xavier Tillman.
The 6-foot-7 big, now in his fourth professional season, is making $1.9 million in the final year of his rookie deal. The Celtics will use Stevens as salary-matching for Tillman, meaning the entirety of the $6.2 million traded Player Exception generated in the Grant Williams sign-and-trade this offseason remains intact.
The Celtics also have six future second-round draft picks available for trade, including two in the 2024 NBA Draft and three future first-round choices.
In trading Stevens, the Celtics will also retain an open roster spot.
Tillman is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason. However, Boston will maintain his Bird Rights as he hits free agency.
The Michigan State product has appeared in 34 games for Memphis this season (starting in 13), averaging 6.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in
20.6 minutes per game.
The 25-year-old, known for his defense, provides additional frontcourt depth behind Al Horford, Luke Kornet, and Kristaps Porzingis.
Tillman fits into the mold of Boston’s defensive approach, providing versatility and excellent rim protection, averaging 1.2 steals and a block per game. He is one of just 14 players averaging at least one block and one steal per game.
Additionally, he has playoff experience, totaling 340 career postseason minutes.
Given Boston was able to acquire Tillman without touching the rest of the roster, this is an excellent move for Stevens and the front office, filling the frontcourt void they were searching for.
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