Of course, there are important caveats in the potential plans for both the Celtics and Lillard. From the player’s perspective, Lillard is — like Celtics star Jayson Tatum — currently rehabbing a ruptured Achilles tendon (sustained during a first-round playoff series in April).

Lillard, who could miss all of next season after rupturing his Achilles’ tendon during the Bucks’ first-round playoff loss to Indiana, will soon become an intriguing and likely affordable free agent.

When the Celtics sold to new ownership, it was apparent that the current core would be changed. It's an unfortunate reality and Boston was facing major penalties due to the second apron of the luxury tax.