The Boston Celtics have escalated their efforts to recruit free-agent guard Damian Lillard, with Jayson Tatum playing a central role in encouraging the former Milwaukee Bucks star to join the team. This recruitment is focused on securing Lillard’s commitment despite his current Achilles injury, with plans for a potential return in the 2026 NBA season.
Injury sets the stage for strategic acquisition
Lillard, who suffered a torn Achilles during the 2025 NBA Playoffs, is projected to miss most, if not all, of the upcoming 2025-26 season. This major injury influenced Milwaukee’s decision to waive him earlier this summer. With his status uncertain for the entire season, Boston’s recruitment appears based on a long-term vision rather than immediate contribution.
During his two seasons with the Bucks, Lillard proved his value as a nine-time All-Star, averaging 24.9 points and 7.1 assists over 58 games in the past season. His streak of six consecutive seasons with at least 24 points and seven assists per game will pause in 2025-26 due to recovery, but the Celtics view this as an opportunity to invest in his future impact once he is healthy again.
Tatum’s role in building mutual interest
Jayson Tatum has taken a hands-on role in recruiting Lillard, leveraging their friendship that began during their time together with Team USA at the 2020 Olympics. Their growing bond and mutual respect have fostered a strong connection that contributes to Boston emerging as a frontrunner to sign Lillard.
As noted by Gary Washburn of The Boston Globe,
“According to NBA sources, Tatum has been active in recruiting Lillard to Boston, and the market for the point guard is limited because his injury will prevent him from likely playing most of next season.”
Previously, the idea of Lillard joining Boston was met with skepticism by those close to him, as it lacked mutual interest between player and franchise. However, recent developments contrast sharply with that sentiment, revealing a shift toward genuine desire from both sides to make the deal happen.
Boston considered a leading destination for Lillard
With various teams showing interest, Boston stands out as a top contender in the race for Lillard’s signature. ClutchPoints NBA insider Brett Siegel observed,
“I think if I had to rank teams, I’d have Boston at the top right now, but that could change,”
he said.
“A lot of teams interested in Dame. He’s focused on rehab and family right now. No rush to make a decision anytime soon.”
This preference likely reflects Boston’s existing roster structure and the timing of Lillard’s recovery, aligning with the Celtics’ desire to add two All-Stars concurrently when both Tatum and Lillard return.
Shared recovery experience as an additional attraction
Lillard and Tatum’s parallel recoveries from the same severe injury may also strengthen their projected partnership on and off the court. Tatum has been candid about the challenges involved in recovering from a torn Achilles, which could provide a support system for Lillard as he rehabilitates.
Financial and roster considerations for the Celtics
The Celtics are close to clearing cap space under the second apron, which would allow them to offer Lillard a two-year contract using the taxpayer mid-level exception. While other teams might propose more lucrative deals, money is likely not the primary concern for Lillard, given the $22.5 million per year he will continue to receive from the Bucks during his injury hiatus.
Boston’s president of basketball operations Brad Stevens emphasized the critical importance of having a fully healthy Jayson Tatum on the roster. After the Celtics traded away Jrue Holiday to Portland and Kristaps Porzingis to Atlanta for minimal return, adding two All-Star caliber players back together in 2026 could significantly bolster the team’s competitive outlook.
Implications for Boston’s future lineup
By securing Lillard now, the Celtics aim to capitalize on his recovery period alongside Tatum’s, effectively planning to field a duo of All-Stars by the 2026 season. This strategy underscores the franchise’s focus on building a championship-caliber team with the potential to contend at the highest level once both players return to full strength.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Damian Lillard loyal?
A. Lillard is a unique basketball player who values staying loyal to his team and city the most. He remains patient, even if it takes a long time for his team to compete for a championship.
Q. What surgery did Damian Lillard have?
A. The Milwaukee Bucks announced that guard Damian Lillard had surgery on Friday to fix a tear in his left Achilles tendon. Dr. Neal ElAttrache carried out the operation in Los Angeles. Dr. ElAttrache consulted with the Bucks’ orthopaedic surgeon during the procedure.
Q. Where was Damian Lillard’s blood clot?
A. Damian Lillard of the Milwaukee Bucks shared his thoughts about being diagnosed with a blood clot. He described it as a scary experience.
Q. Why does Damian Lillard wear zero?
A. Basketball player Damian Lillard chose the number 0 for his jersey. He wanted to symbolize the letter “O” to honor three significant places in his life. These places are Oakland, where he grew up; Ogden, where he went to college; and Oregon, where he plays basketball now.