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Celtics Star Jayson Tatum’s True Feelings on Damian Lillard Rumors Revealed

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sahil Goswami | Last updated Jul 13, 2025 1:26 PM ET

NBA trade talks are heating up again, and right in the middle of the buzz is Damian Lillard. After a surprising move by the Milwaukee Bucks, Lillard was waived and later cleared waivers, officially making him a free agent. The Bucks chose to stretch the remaining $113 million on his deal to make room for new signings like Myles Turner, shifting their focus toward a younger roster.

Now, Lillard’s next destination is anyone’s guess, but one name is standing out in the recruitment game, Jayson Tatum. According to The Boston Globe’s Gary Washburn, the Celtics star is actively trying to bring Lillard to Boston.

Tatum and Lillard have built chemistry over the years through Team USA, and it seems Tatum sees the veteran guard as a potential difference-maker even as both recover from major injuries.

The Celtics, already hit by Tatum’s Achilles injury and the loss of key rotation pieces, are in retooling mode. While their roster is full, two spots (Jordan Walsh, JD Davison) are on non-guaranteed deals, and Boston could offer Lillard either the veteran’s minimum or mid-level exception. With Lillard getting his guaranteed money from Milwaukee regardless, a discounted deal could work for both sides.

Jayson Tatum has been recruiting Damian Lillard to join the Celtics, per @GwashburnGlobe pic.twitter.com/W3A0PPUxdh
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 13, 2025

Meanwhile, Milwaukee is shifting gears. They’ve brought in 25-year-old Cole Anthony, who averaged 9.4 points and 2.9 assists in five seasons with Orlando. The Bucks also explored bringing back Malcolm Brogdon, but are opting for younger, cost-effective options to pair with Giannis.

As for Lillard, he’s in no rush. With Tatum calling, Boston might just be the perfect landing spot.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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