One of the biggest names still circulating in NBA free agency is Damian Lillard, the All-Star guard recently released by the Milwaukee Bucks. While the Golden State Warriors and Portland Trail Blazers were initially seen as frontrunners for his services, a new contender has reportedly entered the race in a major way.
The Boston Celtics have been active this offseason as they adjust to Jayson Tatum’s injury and prepare for what could be a transitional year. While they’ve been offloading some veteran assets, they are now eyeing a major addition.
According to Adam Himmelsbach of The Boston Globe, the main reasons why Damian Lillard would consider joining the Boston Celtics are his close friendship with Jayson Tatum and his respect for the franchise’s winning culture.
Lillard has yet to make a final decision on his next destination, but those are strong incentives to join the Celtics — a team that, despite recent roster changes, continues to operate with a championship mindset. At this stage of his career, that’s exactly the kind of environment Lillard is looking for.
Bucks’ Damian Lillard suffered an Achilles tendon injury .
Are the Warriors and Trail Blazers still in the mix?
While the Warriors were initially floated as a serious landing spot, recent developments suggest Lillard’s focus may be shifting. Golden State now appears to be lower on his list of preferred destinations.
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According to multiple reports, Lillard’s situation with Milwaukee deteriorated due to internal disagreements surrounding his rehabilitation process. The guard, currently recovering from an Achilles injury, reportedly requested to complete rehab in Portland to remain close to family — a request the Bucks were reluctant to accommodate.
NBA insider Chris Haynes expanded on the situation during an appearance on NBA TV. “I was told that some people within the Bucks did not approve of Lillard’s rehab plans,” Haynes said. “There was some back-and-forth between the front office and his camp, creating noticeable tension.”
On Friday, Lillard added more intrigue to the speculation. He posted a photo on Instagram showing himself in rehab, with a mannequin wearing his old Trail Blazers jersey in the background. The image, widely interpreted as a nod to his emotional ties to Portland, has reignited talk of a potential reunion with the team where he spent the majority of his career.
