The Boston Celtics are making moves, and Xavier Tillman is the latest name on the way out. On Thursday afternoon, the veteran forward was traded to the Charlotte Hornets, marking the third deal of the day for Boston as they look to reshape the back end of their roster.
Tillman’s time in Boston was short but meaningful. Acquired from Memphis ahead of the 2024 title run, he never carved out a regular role in Joe Mazzulla’s rotation-appearing in just 14 games this season and averaging 2.2 points in under eight minutes per contest. But his impact went well beyond the box score.
Inside the locker room, Tillman quickly earned the respect of teammates and coaches alike. He brought a steady, veteran presence to a team with championship aspirations, and that leadership didn’t go unnoticed.
“He’s almost become, quickly, a vet for us,” Mazzulla said. “I’ve been very appreciative of how he’s handled just the trajectory of his role here.”
That role, while limited on the court, came with trust from the coaching staff. Whether he was called upon in a pinch or simply guiding younger players from the bench, Tillman brought consistency and professionalism.
“Whether he plays or doesn’t play, there’s a level of trust that I have when we do go to him-he’s going to deliver,” Mazzulla added. “Because you know who he is on and off the court.”
One of Tillman’s standout moments in green came on the biggest stage: the 2024 NBA Finals. In Game 3, he was tasked with guarding Luka Dončić-a tall order for anyone-and responded by knocking down a clutch three-pointer that helped Boston extend its lead. It was a flash of what Tillman could bring when called upon: toughness, poise, and a knack for the moment.
Unfortunately, knee issues sidelined much of his 2024-25 campaign, and with Boston looking to trim salary and open up flexibility, Tillman became part of a broader roster shuffle. He joins Chris Boucher (traded to Utah) and Josh Minott (sent to Brooklyn) as the trio of Celtics moved on Thursday in what’s clearly a cost-cutting effort.
Still, wherever Tillman lands, he brings more than just a stat line. As Mazzulla put it, “He has a maturity and a professional perspective. He just gives back to the locker room.”
In Charlotte, the Hornets will be getting a player who may not fill up the scoresheet, but who knows how to play the game the right way-on and off the court.