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Making a case for each backup center option on the Boston Celtics' roster

Should the Boston Celtics go with an ole reliable option for their backup, a younger version of Al Horford, or the summer league sensation?

By Michael Ivanoskos

The Boston Celtics have several different in-house option competing for minutes at the 5
The Boston Celtics have several different in-house option competing for minutes at the 5 / Elsa/GettyImages
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Xavier Tillman

Tillman inked on for a two-year deal and at 25 years young, he figures to be a contributing piece long-term for the Boston Celtics. He finished the season averaging 5.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, and a block and a steal per game on 43% shooting overall.

This season included a game-winning bucket against the Sacramento Kings, two blocks on Luka Doncic in the Finals, and a Big Al-esque corner three-point make in Game 3 of the Finals. He is the best defender of the three players who have a chance to receive the backup center spot. There is something to be said that Joe Mazzulla trusted the Michigan State product over the field for NBA Finals minutes.

The con is that Tillman may not fit with a Boston Celtics team who likes to run offensively as he is a more old-school bruiser type of big man. Also at just six-foot-seven, he is giving up some size upfront, but his 245-pound frame seems to make up for it.

He may not be the most athletic to help with a team's vertical spacing, but his style of defense more than fits the mold of being a Boston Celtic. The big man may lead the team in Tommy points next season.

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