Xavier Tillman Sr has built an NBA career out of being dependable. He stepped up when the Celtics called his number in the Finals, will be ready to help in Kristaps Porzingis' absence to start next season, and could later have a larger role in Boston.
The former Michigan State standout is signing a veteran minimum pact worth an estimated $2.2 million for the upcoming season and $2.5 million for the 2025-26 campaign.
The same is true for the start of next season, with the expectation being that the former All-Star will not return until November at the earliest and more likely to join Boston's quest for Banner 19 in December afterThroughout his career, Tillman Sr. has proven that even if he's not the first option at center, his team knows it can depend on him when called upon. The Celtics' Game 3 win over the Mavericks, which gave them a commanding 3-0 series lead, was a prime example.
"You dream of yourself being this great big thing, and you want to be the star of the show and stuff like that. But when you realize that you have to be a star in your own role, I feel like that's when it becomes easier day in and day out." "Don't be weird," was the message Joe Mazzulla delivered to him after Boston traded for Tillman. That memo helped ease his transition and allowed him to be comfortable upon arrival, aiding him as he acclimated to a new city and team.
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