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Why a former MVP is the reason Boston Celtics may retain key free agent

By Andrew Hughes

A former MVP from an Eastern Conference rival could be the reason the Boston Celtics retain their impending restricted free agent Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports
A former MVP from an Eastern Conference rival could be the reason the Boston Celtics retain their impending restricted free agent Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports /
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If/when the Boston Celtics retain impending restricted free agent Grant Williams, it will be because of the presence of former 2x MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo — this at least according to MassLive’s Brian Robb.

During his latest Celtics Mailbag, Robb answered a reader’s question of whether or not Boston needs to retain Williams with the presence of Sam Hauser on the roster and given No. 12’s recent disappearing act. Williams has scored seven points in his last 62 minutes of court time and has shot 1/9 during that stretch.

According to Robb, the Cs will need to re-sign Williams because of how he matches up with the former back-to-back MVP:

"“I fully expect Grant Williams back next year. Why? Look no further than Giannis Antetokounmpo who will not be going anywhere as long as these Celtics are trying to contend. With Al Horford turning 37 and Rob Williams just not a good matchup for him as a strength standpoint, letting Williams walk (with no appealing means to replace him) would be foolish for a contender.”"

Boston Celtics have leverage in Grant Williams negotiations

One particular thing Robb said in his answer to that reader’s question about Williams’ next contract should have Boston Celtics fans pleased with how things may play out in the offseason: that being that the franchise has leverage over the restricted free agent to be.

Williams’ contract demands could be gaudy and it’s expected that rebuilding teams — think the Charlotte Hornets, Orlando Magic, and Detroit Pistons — could be in the market for the 24-year-old’s services. If Boston doesn’t feel the need to match such an offer, the presence of Hauser, and trade deadline acquisition Mike Muscala (team option) could empower them to tell Williams to take it or leave it when their contract terms are submitted.

Williams can help his own case out by snapping out of his current shooting slump, and to his benefit, that doesn’t need to happen until the postseason. If he does continue to serve a non-vital role as he’s been of late, he could cost himself millions in free agent earnings.

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