The Boston Celtics have seen a typical start to the 2025-26 NBA season, oscillating around the .500 mark. Alongside noteworthy victories, the team has also faced some disappointing defeats. With Jayson Tatum sidelined, the Celtics are currently maximizing their potential in the early phase of this season, which has been identified as a developmental and transitional period.
This year is pivotal for the Celtics as they evaluate their roster to determine who will be a lasting component when they are poised for contention. With a little over a month into the season, it’s clear which players have solidified their roles and which may find themselves on the trading block by the fast-approaching February deadline.
As Thanksgiving approaches, the Celtics would likely be thankful if three players managed to elevate their performances and secure their positions on the team.
Firstly, Xavier Tillman, the center acquired during the 2023-24 trade deadline, has faced struggles in finding his niche within the Celtics’ rotation. The franchise had hoped he would emerge as a dependable big man off the bench, but two years later, those aspirations remain unfulfilled. With Neemias Queta recently sustaining an ankle injury that will sideline him temporarily, Tillman now has an opportunity to revive his season. Nevertheless, his spot in the rotation remains tenuous, as he continues to trail behind Luka Garza and Chris Boucher.
Baylor Scheierman, playing the small forward/shooting guard position, has had a challenging campaign so far, as head coach Joe Mazzulla has explored various combinations for the fifth starter alongside Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, Payton Pritchard, and Neemias Queta. Despite his shooting efficiency—having made 10 out of 19 three-point attempts and boasting a remarkable 79% True Shooting—it appears that Scheierman is not a favored option for consistent playing time, as he has only appeared in 13 of the team’s first 17 games with a remarkably low usage rate of 8.5%. His future with the Celtics appears uncertain, especially if he cannot secure a more significant role.
Lastly, Anfernee Simons, although not entirely in jeopardy, faces challenges in solidifying his place on the team. While he has contributed valuable shot creation off the bench, his contract expires at the end of the season, and with the Celtics experiencing financial constraints, the team may prioritize other roster adjustments. With established guards Derrick White and Payton Pritchard ahead of him in the backcourt, Simons might soon find himself expendable, particularly with a hefty salary of $27.6 million hanging in the balance.
The Celtics’ performance moving forward will be crucial, as they aim to solidify their roster amidst these uncertainties. As they reflect on opportunities during this holiday season, the hope is that these players will step up and make a significant impact in order to build the foundation for future success.