Boston Celtics could move Xavier Tillman and Georges Niang to reduce salary and create roster flexibility, according to NBA writer Brian Robb.
Boston Celtics are entering the 2025–26 NBA season with a frontcourt rotation that raises more questions than answers.
Xavier Tillman
Xavier Tillman
Position: C, PF
Age: 26
Height: 201 cm
Weight: 111 kg
Birth place: United States of America
With Jayson Tatum sidelined indefinitely due to a torn Achilles, and Kristaps Porzingis already traded to ease salary cap pressure, Boston's front line looks thin—both in star power and depth.
The departures haven’t stopped there. Luke Kornet signed with the San Antonio Spurs in free agency, and veteran big man Al Horford is expected to leave as well, drawing interest from multiple teams.
That leaves the Celtics with Sam Hauser, Xavier Tillman, Neemias Queta, Georges Niang, and Luka Garza as the main frontcourt options—a group that lacks proven starting-caliber size and experience.
Credit AP - Scanpix
According to NBA writer Brian Robb of MassLive, two of those names—Tillman and Niang—are likely trade candidates.
“Tillman will be a salary dump if/when he is moved so the Celtics can probably include some extra cash for a team to take him (if Boston has other plans for his roster spot),” Robb wrote.
“Beyond that, Niang should be movable if he has a productive start to the season given his reasonable salary and expiring contract.”
Niang was acquired in the Porzingis trade with Atlanta but doesn’t appear to be in Boston’s long-term plans.
Moving him later this season in a cap-clearing deal is one option already being considered, especially with the Celtics working hard to stay below the league’s second tax apron.
The front office has shown a willingness to trim salary, even if it comes at the cost of on-court talent. They’ve already moved Porzingis and Jrue Holiday, and more cap-saving deals could follow.
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