Celtics React to Xavier Tillman Trade: 'We Paid a Lot of Attention to Him'

Xavier Tillman deepens the Boston Celtics' depth behind Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford.

Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

On Wednesday, the Boston Celtics picked up a 125-117 victory against the Atlanta Hawks. Prior to the game, Boston acquired Xavier Tillman from the Memphis Grizzlies for Lamar Stevens and two second-round draft picks.

Tillman was a member of the Grizzlies for four seasons. The 25-year-old center holds career averages of 6.2 points and 4.3 rebounds over 17.7 minutes per game.

Per Inside The Celtics, Joe Mazzulla discussed what Tillman can offer to the Celtics’ roster.

“Skilled. Toughness. Well-coached, obviously we paid a lot of attention to him because of the team that plays for and the coach that he has, and I like his defensive versatility. He has really good numbers against some of the top centers in the league. His pick-and-roll defense and movement is actually really good which gives us versatility at that position.”

Al Horford commented on his new teammate.

"We're looking forward to having him here. And he's a guy that's played on good teams and understands how to play. I look forward to playing with him."

Boston's next game is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 9, against the Washington Wizards at TD Garden; tip-off is at 7:30 p.m. EST. 

Further Reading

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Fixated on Winning, Jayson Tatum Again Proves He's Not 'Bored Making the Right Play Over and Over'

Brad Stevens Shares What Celtics Are Looking to Add and How He Hopes to Do So

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Joe Mazzulla Discusses Identity, Evolution of Celtics' Offense: 'Balance of Pace and Execution'

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