If there is a theme for the season ahead of the Boston Celtics, it is steeped in development, and backup Boston big man Xavier Tillman Sr. is no exception to that trend. The Michigan State alum has found himself asked to play a bit more power forward for the Celtics this season after the departures of Al Horford, Kristaps Porzingis, and Luke Kornet have left the team’s big man rotation somewhat threadbare.

Ironically enough, Tillman has been looking to pick the brain of a player who has only just arrived to play for the ball club they both suit up for now, former Toronto Raptors forward Chris Boucher. Speaking to the media after a recent practice, Tillman broke down how he is adapting to life at the 4 spot. “I feel really confident,” he said via CLNS Media. “I feel really confident in my shot. I have just got to keep wrapping it out.”

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“That four spot is a little bit different,” Tillman added. “I like to watch Chris (Boucher) a lot because he’s been playing the four for the majority of his career.”

Oct 10, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Boston Celtics forward Xavier Tillman Sr. (26) dribbles the ball as Toronto Raptors guard Jamal Shead (23) defends in the first half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

Oct 10, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Boston Celtics forward Xavier Tillman Sr. (26) dribbles the ball as Toronto Raptors guard Jamal Shead (23) defends in the first half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

“So, just finding ways to be impactful, whether it’s catch and shoot or it’s cutting, or it’s offensive rebounding, just figuring out where I can have an impact at that four spot as well,” suggested the Boston big as he described what’s changing for him playing down a spot. As to what he’s picked up from Boucher, Tillman had plenty to say.

“He’s always got to be active at the four spot. A lot of times I always thought the fours just kind of hung out in the corners and waited for catch and shoots, but he would always look for his man to turn his head for a backdoor or fall asleep and then face cut him for a rebound or a cut.”

“So, just learning different ways and different opportunities you have to get to the rim,” added Tillman.

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This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: Xavier Tillman on learning from Boucher’s example at the 4 for Celtics