NBA circles are buzzing with speculation as Boston Celtics cornerstone **Jayson Tatum** is reportedly attempting to recruit nine-time All-Star **Damian Lillard** to join the franchise. Lillard, recently waived by the Milwaukee Bucks, is now an unrestricted free agent and is said to be considering Boston as one of his potential landing spots.
The situation is notably complex. Both Tatum and Lillard are currently sidelined by severe **Achilles injuries**, expected to keep them out for the entirety of the upcoming 2025-26 season. Lillard`s unexpected release from the Bucks allowed them to stretch the remaining years of his substantial contract for salary cap purposes, facilitating the acquisition of center Myles Turner.
At 35 years old this month, Lillard represents a veteran presence, albeit one facing a significant recovery period. He averaged 24.9 points and 7.1 assists in his last active season. It is widely assumed he would not anticipate coming off the bench when he eventually returns to play.
For the Celtics, who have publicly stated they are undergoing a “retooling” rather than a full “rebuild,” this potential move presents significant strategic and financial questions. Following Tatum`s injury, the team has already traded key players like Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porziņģis, moves ostensibly made to manage the salary cap and roster composition in light of their changed circumstances.
Bringing Lillard aboard, especially given his injury and contract status, would require intricate financial maneuvering. Options might include signing him for the veteran`s minimum or utilizing a mid-level exception. Reports also suggest Boston is exploring further cost-cutting measures, including potentially moving recent acquisition Anfernee Simons to free up salary space.
The ambition behind Tatum`s reported recruitment appears to be centered on the **2026-27 season** and beyond. A healthy trio of Tatum, Jaylen Brown (expected to remain on a long-term deal), and Lillard could form a formidable scoring punch. However, this vision hinges entirely on the successful recovery of two star players from one of the most challenging injuries in basketball.
**Kevin Durant**, who previously navigated an Achilles tear himself, recently commented on the mental fortitude required for players like Tatum and Lillard facing this setback. Speaking on the `Mind the Game` podcast, Durant acknowledged their elite nature, describing the injury as merely “a little stoppage in their journey.” He highlighted the initial difficulty in accepting being unable to play – likely a first for them – and the necessity to focus entirely on the recovery process.
The prospect of Lillard in Celtic green is intriguing, representing a potential high-reward outcome contingent on navigating substantial risks related to health, age, and salary cap limitations. It`s a bold play in Boston`s ongoing roster adjustments, turning heads across the league as they map out a future beyond the immediate challenge of critical injuries.
Jasper Hawthorne