Adam Silver's first and second aprons have made it almost impossible for teams to retain their veteran players once they reach a certain earning stage.

Some sections of Boston's fan base may view this as a missed opportunity. Yet, it's vital to put things into perspective.

Following Lillard’s return to the Trail Blazers, one Boston Celtics alum, Marcus Smart, has come up as a possible target for them. The X account Celtics Lead floated the idea of Boston bringing Smart back two years after they traded him like the Trail Blazers did with Lillard.

Damian Lillard, one of the standout talents in the NBA, is poised to join a new team next season as he continues his recovery from an Achilles injury. According to reports, there is already a frontrunner in the race to acquire the acclaimed guard's services.

Lillard is currently sidelined with an Achilles tear. It's the same injury that has Jayson Tatum sitting out the upcoming season. Should the Celtics acquire Lillard, two of their 15 roster spots will be committed to talent with long-term injuries.

Where Celtics All-Star Jayson Tatum ranks on Bleacher Report's Top 100 all-time list among the franchise's greats that came before him.

The Boston Celtics' forward talent is nothing special without Jayson Tatum, and their latest departure only underlines that reality.