Boston Celtics: 3 players expected to make big jumps in 2021-22

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 22: Robert Williams III #44 of the Boston Celtics looks on against the Brooklyn Nets in Game One of the First Round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Barclays Center at Barclays Center on May 22, 2021 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Steven Ryan/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 22: Robert Williams III #44 of the Boston Celtics looks on against the Brooklyn Nets in Game One of the First Round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Barclays Center at Barclays Center on May 22, 2021 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Steven Ryan/Getty Images)
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Boston Celtics
Boston Celtics (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

Boston Celtics player No. 3) Robert Williams III

Even before Robert Williams III signed his rather pricy contract extension this summer, many viewed the big man as a player to get excited about heading into next season.

Now $54 million richer, this belief has undoubtedly strengthened, and for good reason.

Playing in a career-best 52 games last year, Williams set career-highs seemingly all across the board.  In 18.9 minutes a night, the center posted eight points,  6.9 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.8 blocks per game.

During his 13 starts (another career-high) on the year, the 23-year-old only seemed to thrive with the increased role, posting averages of 9.5 points, 8.3 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.7 blocks on 70.5 percent shooting while also registering a record of 10-3 during this timespan.

Then, to follow up his impressive regular season, Williams went on to have himself quite a solid postseason, especially on the defensive side of the ball as he became the first Boston Celtics player to record nine blocked shots in a playoff game.

Now that the front office has committed a significant amount of money to their fourth-year big, it’s only logical to believe that they’ll be relying on him to continue developing into a stellar rim-rattling/ shot-swatting five who, in time, could take over the starting pivot position on a full-time basis.

Many believe 2021-22 could be a breakout year for the Time Lord.

The Houdini couldn’t agree more!