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

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!