In a summer already filled with seismic shifts across the NBA, the Boston Celtics may be on the verge of pulling off another blockbuster. This time by landing nine-time All-Star Damian Lillard. According to multiple reports, including a detailed account from NBA insider Scott Berges, the Celtics have surged to the front of the pack in the race to sign Lillard following his surprise buyout from the Milwaukee Bucks earlier this offseason.
The recruitment effort has been anything but subtle. Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum has reportedly been in “daily contact” with Lillard since the veteran guard became a free agent, making a personal pitch to bring the sharpshooter to Boston. Tatum’s efforts have been matched by Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens, who has also maintained “constant contact” with Lillard recently.
A private meeting between Lillard and the Celtics is scheduled for July 7, and sources close to the situation suggest that Boston is currently Lillard’s preferred destination.
Lillard, 34, is coming off a tumultuous stint in Milwaukee that ended with a torn Achilles in April and a record-setting $113 million buyout. While his health remains a question mark for the 2025–26 season, his résumé speaks for itself: 24.9 points per game over 13 seasons, seven All-NBA selections, and a reputation as one of the most clutch scorers in league history.
For the Celtics, the potential addition of Lillard comes at a pivotal moment. With Jayson Tatum recovering from an Achilles injury of his own and the team having moved on from Kristaps Porziņģis and Jrue Holiday, Boston is retooling on the fly. Yet with Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and head coach Joe Mazzulla still in place, the Celtics remain a top-tier destination for veterans seeking a title run.
Lillard’s desire to win a championship before the end of his career is no secret. After years of loyalty to the Portland Trail Blazers and a brief, injury-shortened run with the Bucks, Boston offers a compelling mix of star power, culture, and opportunity. Even if he’s not the same explosive scorer post-injury, his leadership and perimeter shooting could be the missing piece in Boston’s quest for banner No. 19.
The July 7 meeting could be the turning point. If all goes well, the Celtics may soon add another marquee name to their storied legacy, and Lillard may finally get the championship stage he’s long deserved.
