One day ahead of the 2024 NBA Trade Deadline, the Boston Celtics made a deal with the Memphis Grizzlies to upgrade their frontcourt. They acquired versatile big man Xavier Tillman Sr. in exchange for two second-round picks.
Tillman is a good fit in Boston as he is capable of playing power forward and center. He provides a solid option for Joe Mazzulla to rely on whenever Al Horford is out of the lineup and he can play alongside Kristaps Porzingis as well.
After trading Robert Williams III and Malcolm Brogdon to the Portland Trail Blazers as part of the package for Jrue Holiday, the depth in the Celtics’ frontcourt was a bit lacking. That is no longer the case with Tillman in the mix.
Already with the best record in the NBA, Boston was looking to improve on the fringes as much as possible and accomplished that with Tillman. As of now, that is likely the last move we will see from the team.
According to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, the Celtics are likely done making moves ahead of the 3 p.m. ET deadline. Of course, things could change between now and then, but all signs are pointing to Tillman being their only move.
Barring a surprise, sounds like Boston is done making moves before today’s 3 p.m. ET trade deadline. League personnel are still waiting to see what defensive upgrade(s) come for Milwaukee, after the Bucks may have cast the widest net of any buyer in the NBA these past few weeks.
— Jake Fischer (@JakeLFischer) February 8, 2024
Boston could always get involved in the buyout market, as veteran players looking to chase a ring will have them near the top of their list of teams to join. But, any more trades are unlikely as they like the mix of players they already have.
With a strong rotation already in place, it should come as no surprise the Celtics are likely done making trades. They made their biggest ones over the offseason acquiring Holiday and Porzingis.
The only thing that would likely change the Celtics’ mind and get them back on the trade market is if an unexpected injury occurred. Outside of that, what you see on the roster is what they will be rolling with for the remainder of the season and for what they hope is a deep playoff run.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!