Brian Robb of MassLive.com reported on his observations from the Boston Celtics’ opening practice on Tuesday, a session that included a notable guest: former Memphis Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins.
Jenkins’ presence provided an opportunity to check in on one of his former players, Xavier Tillman, who joined Boston last season.
The big man, who battled lingering knee problems throughout much of the 2024/25 campaign, now appears to have returned to full health.
Reflecting on his struggles last year, Tillman admitted just how difficult the situation had been for him both physically and mentally.
“From just a playing perspective, (last season) was very hard,” the player told Robb. “Just wanting to play, wanting to contribute. But I also knew I was going through stuff myself.
“My knee would have days where it would just swell up into a balloon after I had one scrimmage or stuff like that. So I knew consistency-wise, I could be there to kind of support. But as far as my actual play, I couldn’t do everything I wanted to do.”
Tillman has played 5 seasons for the Grizzlies and Celtics. He has averaged 5.3 points and 3.8 rebounds in 260 regular-season games. He has won 1 NBA championship.
Eastern Notes: Porter, Celtics, Magic, Hornets, Wiseman https://t.co/BYDJovzk4h pic.twitter.com/5HQVypfr5N
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