Damian Lillard to Boston Celtics? Jayson Tatum leads recruitment

Damian Lillard is going through an especially difficult period for any professional athlete. After suffering an Achilles tendon tear during Game 4 of the Milwaukee Bucks playoff loss to the Indiana Pacers, he faces a long rehabilitation with all its uncertainties. Released by the Bucks on July 1st, the 34-year-old veteran finds himself in a unique contractual situation as a free agent.

A star duo in reconstruction

From a contractual standpoint, Lillard is in an almost ideal situation: he’ll receive a significant salary while being free to sign with the team of his choice without pressure to sign for the maximum amount. The All-Star point guard will be paid by the Milwaukee Bucks, who will pay him over $20 million annually for five seasons following his buyout.

According to Boston Globe, Jayson Tatum is actively trying to bring Lillard to Massachusetts. « According to NBA sources, Tatum has been active in recruiting Lillard to Boston, and the market for the point guard is limited as his injury will likely prevent him from playing most of next season, » reported Gary Washburn.

REPORT: Jayson Tatum has been « active » in trying to recruit Damian Lillard to the Boston Celtics, per Gary Washburn of Boston Globe.

The Celtics are interested in a multi-year deal that would allow Lillard to return fully healthy from his torn Achilles.

Should Dame sign with… pic.twitter.com/20K28sSxl8

— Courtside Buzz (@CourtsideBuzzX) July 13, 2025

The Celtics would be able to offer him a multi-year contract without having to propose too much money since the Bucks will pay the bulk of the player’s salary. This situation strangely reminds of Jrue Holiday, which worked out very well for Boston after being let go by Milwaukee.

Ironically, Tatum also suffered an Achilles tendon tear during Game 4 of Boston’s playoff semifinal loss to the New York Knicks, undergoing surgery on May 13. Damian Lillard could return during the 2025-2026 season, though Tatum’s recovery timeline remains unclear.

Last season, Lillard averaged 24.9 points, 7.1 assists, and 1.2 steals per game with shooting percentages of 44.8% from the field, 37.6% from three-point range, and 92.1% from the free throw line with Milwaukee. His skills would perfectly fit Joe Mazzulla’s system, a coach who encourages his players to take numerous three-point attempts.

However, at 37 and after such an injury, the veteran might be particularly vulnerable on defense. The Celtics will face competition from the Golden State Warriors and Miami Heat, who are also interested in his services according to The Athletic.