Celtics Trade May Change Deadline Landscape for Raptors

The Boston Celtics have suddenly filled their need for a backup big ahead of Wednesday’s trade deadline.

Xavier Tillman has reportedly been traded from the Memphis Grizzlies to the Celtics for two second-round picks, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported. Those picks will be in 2027 and 2030.

Boston had been searching for some more depth and Toronto Raptors forward Chris Boucher had been mentioned as a potential target. The deal for Tillman likely takes the Celtics out of trade talks for Boucher.

Tillman, 25, is averaging 6.0 points and 4.7 rebounds per game while shooting 40.8% from the field. He’s had a disappointing season for the Grizzlies, but he’s only set to earn $1.9 million this year as an expiring contract.

Boucher’s trade market has been made complicated by the $10.8 million he’s set to earn next year. A deal would have required Boston to take on long-term money and give up at least one rotation player in order to match salaries.

Boston has also been connected to Otto Porter Jr., who is likely available for a second-round pick. The Celtics still have multiple future second-round picks they could move in a deal.

The Tillman trade suggests that there should be a market for bench depth Thursday for second-round picks. Toronto could move multiple players including Gary Trent Jr., Thad Young, Porter, and Boucher in a similar type of deal.

Bruce Brown’s trade market is expected to be a little bigger with at least a first-round pick likely on the table.