Xavier Tillman returns tonight for Game 2 following absence due to death of his father
Kristaps Porzingis was not the only Celtic big man out for Game 1 on Tuesday. Xavier Tillman was also not available due to personal reasons, which fans later learned via the player's Instagram was due to the tragic death of his father Roosevelt Tillman. No one would blame Xavier for taking more time off, but the Celtics late this morning updated their injury report to list Tillman as available.
Al Horford was forced to play 40 minutes on Tuesday, so Tillman's return will provide assistance. Our prayers are with Xavier and his family. Hopefully tonight's game will give him a chance to distract himself, even if its only temporarily.
Xavier Tillman is out tonight for personal reasons. He posted on Instagram that his father passed away. All thoughts and prayers with him.
— Noa Dalzell 🏀 (@NoaDalzellNBA) May 21, 2024