3 reasons why the Boston Celtics must ditch the double big lineup

Jan 10, 2022; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics center Robert Williams III (44) grabs the loose ball against the Indiana Pacers in the first quarter at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 10, 2022; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics center Robert Williams III (44) grabs the loose ball against the Indiana Pacers in the first quarter at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports /
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Boston Celtics (Photo by Maddie Malhotra/Getty Images)
Boston Celtics (Photo by Maddie Malhotra/Getty Images) /

Reason No. 3) Robert Williams is our center of the future

The final point is that Robert Williams is our five with the most upside. Williams is only 24-years-old and has yet to enter his prime.

The best play is really yet to come.

Timelord is a tremendous rim runner offensively and is an outstanding lob threat in pick and roll situations. He has even shown a tendency to guard well out on the perimeter, which is a very admiring trait welcomed on the Boston Celtics going forward.

Defensively, Williams is averaging around two blocks per game and just near 10 boards. These baseline stats do not do justice to his defensive versatility, for Rob does not just block shots but, also, he often saves them to his teammates.

His presence in the paint deters the opposition from attacking the basket.

On the other hand, Al Horford is 35-years-old and is well past his prime.  Father time remains undefeated.

Horford has always been an utmost professional and I truly believe he would make no issue about playing in a smaller role.

It could be something similar to what LaMarcus Aldridge is doing for the Brooklyn Nets — a steady 10-15 points per game off the pine.

There always comes a time when once stars need to settle for a smaller role for the betterment of the team.

To summarize, my point is that the double-big lineup gives the Jays less space to operate, and the insertion of Grant Williams to the starting lineup, coupled with the demotion of Al Horford to the bench would better maximize both units.

As for Robert Williams, he’s staying put — he’s the center of the future for the Boston Celtics.

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