### Jayson Tatum's Recruitment Efforts for Damian Lillard Amid Injury Recovery Jayson Tatum, the Boston Celtics' All-Star forward, is actively working to recruit Damian Lillard, a nine-time All-Star and now an unrestricted free agent, to join the Celtics. Lillard was recently waived by the Milwaukee Bucks and is recovering from an Achilles injury sustained during the 2025 playoffs. Both players are expected to miss the upcoming 2025-26 NBA season due to their respective injuries, which adds a unique dynamic to Tatum's recruitment efforts. The Celtics are interested in signing Lillard to a multi-year deal, allowing both players to return fully healthy for a potential title run in the 2026-27 season [https://nypost.com/2025/07/14/sports/jayson-tatum-trying-to-convince-damian-lillard-to-sign-with-celtics][https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/jayson_tatum_actively_recruiting_damian_lillard_to_boston_celtics/s1_17670_42452653]. ### Structure of Tatum's Recruitment Strategy 1. **Friendship and Chemistry**: Tatum and Lillard share a close friendship, having played together on Team USA, which Tatum is leveraging to persuade Lillard to join the Celtics [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/celtics_star_recruiting_damian_lillard_to_boston_after_release_report/s1_17615_42449267]. 2. **Injury Recovery**: Both players are recovering from Achilles injuries, which means they could rehabilitate together, fostering a strong bond and team chemistry [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/jayson_tatum_recruiting_damian_lillard_to_join_celtics_after_release_from_bucks_per_report/s1_17038_42451406]. 3. **Celtics' Roster Needs**: The Celtics have recently traded away key players, creating a need for a guard like Lillard, especially after losing Jrue Holiday [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/damian_lillard_to_celtics_report_surfaces_during_nba_summer_league/s1_17615_42450188]. 4. **Long-Term Vision**: The Celtics are looking at the 2026-27 season as a potential championship window, making Lillard's signing a strategic move for the future [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/nba_rumors_celtics_jayson_tatum_nuggets_jonas_valanciunas_lakers_lebron_james/s1_17038_42451406]. ### Supporting Evidence for Recruitment Efforts - **Injury Status**: Both Tatum and Lillard are expected to miss the entire 2025-26 season due to their Achilles injuries, which could make a year of rehabilitation together appealing [https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/jayson-tatum-recruiting-damian-lillard-to-join-celtics-after-release-from-bucks-per-report]. - **Market Limitations**: Lillard's injury has limited the market for his services, making the Celtics a viable option as they are willing to offer a multi-year deal [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/jayson_tatum_actively_recruiting_damian_lillard_to_boston_celtics/s1_17670_42452653]. - **Mutual Interest**: Reports indicate that Lillard is open to considering the Celtics, a shift from his previous reluctance to join the team [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/damian_lillard_celtics_have_mutual_interest/s1_17038_42410676]. ### Conclusion: Tatum's Strategic Recruitment of Lillard In summary, Jayson Tatum's recruitment of Damian Lillard is a calculated effort that hinges on their friendship, shared recovery from injuries, and the Celtics' strategic needs for the future. The potential for both players to rehabilitate together adds a personal touch to the recruitment, while the Celtics' interest in a long-term deal aligns with their championship aspirations for the 2026-27 season. 1. **Friendship and Chemistry**: Tatum's personal connection with Lillard is a key factor. 2. **Injury Recovery**: Their simultaneous recovery could foster team unity. 3. **Celtics' Roster Needs**: The team is in need of a guard after recent trades. 4. **Long-Term Vision**: The Celtics are positioning themselves for a future title run. This recruitment effort is one to watch as both players navigate their recovery and the evolving landscape of the NBA [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/jayson_tatum_actively_recruiting_damian_lillard_to_boston_celtics/s1_17670_42452653][https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/nba_rumors_celtics_jayson_tatum_nuggets_jonas_valanciunas_lakers_lebron_james/s1_17038_42451406].