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4 hours ago
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The Boston Celtics have one season to get back on track. After Jayson Tatum’s Achilles injury during the playoffs, the team accepted that the 2025–26 season would be a retooling year.
The Celtics have since traded away multiple pieces from their championship core in cost-saving moves. They’ve made it clear to the league: without Tatum, they’re taking a step back next season — with hopes of returning to title contention in 2026–27.
That’s why a Damian Lillard–Celtics pairing would be such a perfect fit.
Like Tatum, Lillard will also spend next season rehabbing an Achilles tear.
According to the Boston Globe, Tatum is now helping recruit Lillard to the Celtics in hopes of teaming up in two seasons and giving the league major problems.
“Damian Lillard remains a free agent but is considering his options, and the Celtics are indeed one of them. The nine-time All-Star is in no hurry to sign, but the Celtics are interested in a multi-year deal that would allow him to return fully healthy from his torn Achilles for the 2026–27 season in a Celtics uniform, along with a healed Tatum for a title run. According to NBA sources, Jayson Tatum has been active in recruiting Lillard to Boston, and the market for the point guard is limited because his injury will likely prevent him from playing most of next season.”
If Tatum is successful in recruiting Lillard to Boston, it could be a match made in heaven.
Lillard’s buyout would allow Boston to sign him on a team-friendly deal. He could spend the year rehabbing, then join a ready-made contender. The Celtics would land a future Hall of Famer at a bargain — one who could help push their roster over the top.
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