Celtics Rumors: Damian Lillard, Neemias Queta, Ben Simmons

Damian Lillard revealed that Jrue Holiday contacted him with an eyeball emoji immediately after Lillard was waived by the Bucks, hinting at a potential Celtics move. However, Lillard had already decided to return to the Trail Blazers, where he was introduced. While the idea of Lillard as long-term insurance for Jayson Tatum briefly interested Boston, it went no further.

The Celtics lacked the financial means to match Portland's three-year, $42 million offer. Boston only had the $5.7 million taxpayer mid-level exception available, and using it might have required shedding other salaries to avoid the second luxury tax apron.

Looking at the Celtics roster, MassLive projects Neemias Queta as the likely starting center if no changes occur. This would create a lineup of Queta, Jaylen Brown, and Derrick White, with the final two starting spots open for competition. Potential battles include Payton Pritchard vs. Anfernee Simons at point guard and Sam Hauser vs. Georges Niang at forward, with Josh Minott also possibly in the mix.

The Celtics officially parted ways with JD Davison after three years, reportedly due to insufficient NBA-level growth. Regarding the resulting open roster spot, Ben Simmons is available, but his odds of signing with Boston are estimated at only 10-20% because he's expected to receive better offers (both financially and in terms of role) elsewhere.