As All-Star guard Damian Lillard weighs his options post-buyout from the Milwaukee Bucks, the Boston Celtics, featuring Jayson Tatum, are positioning themselves as a potential landing spot. League insiders suggest that a Jayson Tatum Celtics All-Star partnership with Lillard could redefine the team’s championship trajectory, even if its true impact isn’t seen before the 2026 NBA season.
Lillard’s Arrival Could Restore Boston’s Status as Title Threat
With the market for Damian Lillard packed—teams like the Miami Heat, Portland Trail Blazers, Golden State Warriors, and Los Angeles Lakers all reportedly in pursuit—the Celtics present a unique case. Unlike other contenders, Boston can offer Lillard the chance to recover and compete alongside Jayson Tatum, a longtime friend and fellow All-Star also currently in injury rehabilitation.
The potential for both players to rehab together and then join forces on the court has sparked significant speculation within the NBA community. As Senior NBA writer Marc Spears observed, the Celtics could regain their edge if this partnership materializes:
“There’s another guy he could rehab with, they’re good friends—what’s that team with Dame at point guard? Championship caliber again.”
Spears’ comments echo a growing belief that pairing Lillard with Tatum instantly boosts Boston’s competitive outlook, especially during an offseason defined by risk and uncertainty.
The Foundation of Tatum and Lillard’s Relationship
The notion of Tatum and Lillard joining forces is rooted in a well-established connection. The duo developed strong chemistry while playing together on Team USA during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Reports indicate that Tatum had advocated for the Celtics to pursue Lillard even before the star guard was traded to Milwaukee in 2023.
With both men currently sidelined and likely to miss much of the 2025–26 season, the Celtics could be strategically laying the groundwork for a longer-term resurgence when both are healthy and cleared for action.
Evaluating Lillard’s Fit Within the Celtics’ Current Roster
Boston’s dynamics have shifted, with Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis no longer part of the squad. The core unit—featuring Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard—remains, but roster depth has been diminished. Lillard’s latest buyout provides him with $22.5 million annually, freeing him from the need to chase a big contract this offseason. This financial flexibility means Boston could potentially sign him at the league minimum, allowing him to rehabilitate away from immediate pressure.
Current odds see Boston as a shadow favorite, with the Trail Blazers (+230), Heat (+290), Warriors (+325), and Celtics (+350) making up the top contenders, followed by the Rockets (+550), Knicks (+700), and Lakers (+800).
Boston’s Aggressive Strategy Continues
Pursuing Lillard is not without its hazards. The Celtics would risk one of their valuable roster spots in 2025 by placing faith in the return of two injured superstars, trusting that Tatum and Lillard will regain their All-Star forms. Still, the plan is bold: maintain the existing foundation, remain patient, and prepare for a renewed push when both stars are physically ready.
Banking on a future where Lillard and Tatum are fully recovered reflects the urgency and calculated risks of today’s NBA, where team windows to compete are notoriously brief. As the Celtics approach a pivotal offseason, the franchise appears willing to gamble on Lillard’s arrival—hoping that this strategic partnership provides their ultimate breakthrough when both stars are healthy and motivated to chase a long-awaited championship.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Jayson Tatum have a 98 tattoo?
A. He also included two crossed checkered flags and the number 98 to show the year he was born. The strong words “I Just Didn’t Quit” are displayed too. There is a special picture of Tatum as a child with his mother, Brandy Cole, which makes it more personal.
Q. Does Jayson Tatum like Kobe?
A. Kobe Bryant is a basketball legend, and it is wonderful to see his legacy continue. I am a huge fan of Kobe and enjoyed watching the Lakers when he played for them. I still support the Lakers today. Kobe was not only a great player, but also a good person. His legacy is truly special.