Xavier Tillman faces a crossroads season with Boston, needing to stay healthy and offer a real three-point threat to win a steady backup role behind the frontcourt. His defense remains elite on switches and in forcing turnovers, but his offensive game lacks a credible spacer or ball-handler, keeping him on the fringe when the Celtics rotate bigs.

With Horford, Kornet and Porzingis out of the mix, a clearer path should exist if Tillman can stay durable and develop a league-average jumper. This season may define whether he can become a functional two-way big or drift into limited backup minutes elsewhere.

The Celtics head into 2025-26 with a thin frontcourt. Neemias Queta is projected to start at center, Chris Boucher slides to power forward, and Luka Garza with Xavier Tillman battle for minutes. Offseason attrition raises frontcourt risk and fantasy baggage, making minute distribution crucial.

Locked On Fantasy Basketball weighs Queta’s upside, Boucher’s path to minutes, and Garza/Tillman’s ceilings. For fantasy players, the focus is raw stats: blocks, boards, efficient scoring, and how matchup-driven usage could turn a waiver add into a weekly contributor.

Neemias Queta could finally claim a larger role in Boston as the Celtics pivot from veteran bigs to a younger, more mobile frontcourt. With Chris Boucher, Luka Garza, and Amari Williams in the mix, Queta’s rim-protection and finishing around the basket could translate into real DFS upside in favorable matchups. Boston’s frontcourt depth opens a path for increased minutes, making Queta a potential late-round breakout candidate.

As the Celtics reshuffle their rotation, Queta’s growth hinges on conditioning and learning the playbook quickly. If he grabs 12-16 minutes in solid spots, he could deliver impact blocks and efficient scoring around the rim, elevating his fantasy ceiling in daily formats and dynasty leagues alike.

Stay tuned for early-season rotations and matchup-driven opportunities, where Queta’s energy alone might spark a few explosive fantasy games.

The Boston Celtics' jersey history is rich and varied, reflecting the legacy of numerous players who have donned the iconic green. With a total of 68 different jersey numbers used throughout its history, the franchise honors its past with 25 retired jerseys, celebrating some of the legends of the game.

Today, we focus on Xavier Tillman Sr., who currently wears number 26. A product of Michigan State, Tillman was selected 35th overall in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Sacramento Kings, but immediately found himself with the Memphis Grizzlies. After four seasons in Memphis, he was traded to the Celtics in 2024, where he continues to contribute to the team's efforts on the court.