Charlotte Hornets 2025-26 player grades: Xavier Tillman Sr.

[ASFN Admin]

Xavier Tillman Sr. has had a solid NBA career, but since his trade from Memphis to Boston, his minutes were nearly cut in half from his time with the Grizzlies. At the February trade deadline, the Celtics decided to move on from Tillman Sr. in order to get below the luxury tax.

Given Tillman Sr.'s connection to head coach Charles Lee, the Hornets were eager to pick him up for the price of a 2030 second-round pick and Boston added cash considerations (worth $3.5 million) for them to do so. But, following the deadline, Tillman Sr.'s minutes decreased even more, making 16 appearances for Charlotte, averaging less than five minutes per game. In that time, Tillman Sr. didn't look too sharp, averaging 0.8 points, 1.1 rebounds, 0.5 assists, 0.2 steals and 0.2 blocks. He missed all 3-pointers he attempted, shooting 40% from the field and just 25% from the free-throw line. Looking ahead to next year, Tillman Sr. will be an unrestricted free agent, putting his future with the franchise in jeopardy. Perhaps another change of scenery would help find him increased playing time.

Overall grade: F​

This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Hornets 2025-26 player grades: Xavier Tillman Sr.

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