Xavier Tillman Traded from Boston Celtics to Charlotte Hornets
The Boston Celtics have finalized a trade involving Xavier Tillman Sr., sending him to the Charlotte Hornets. The deal was first reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania and marks the Celtics’ third trade on Thursday, contributing to their fourth overall transaction of the week.
Xavier Tillman’s Career with the Celtics
Xavier Tillman joined the Celtics during the trade deadline in 2024. He played a crucial role in Boston’s journey to victory in the 2024 NBA Finals. Notably, Tillman defended top players like Luka Doncic during critical moments.
Performance This Season
- Tillman averaged 2.2 points per game.
- He recorded 1.8 rebounds in 14 games, with one start.
- His role diminished this season, as he fell out of the rotation.
This season, Tillman occasionally saw minutes but was ultimately surpassed by teammate Amari Williams, who was promoted from a two-way contract to a standard roster spot on the same day as the trade.
Reasons Behind the Trade
The primary motivation for the Celtics in trading Tillman was financial. By moving Tillman’s salary, along with those of Chris Boucher and Josh Minott, Boston successfully positioned itself below the luxury tax line for the season.
Future Roster Plans
Following the trade of Tillman, the Celtics currently hold three open roster spots. They have a 14-day window to fill these vacancies. The timing of any new signings is critical for maintaining financial flexibility below the tax line.
With these strategic moves, the Celtics aim to enhance their roster while managing their salary cap effectively.
