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NBA Playoffs: 3 X-Factor Celtics that could surprise us, 2 that could fall flat

By John Canady

With the playoffs nearing, the Boston Celtics look to redeem themselves -- and these 3 players could be an X-factor while these 2 players could fall flat Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
With the playoffs nearing, the Boston Celtics look to redeem themselves -- and these 3 players could be an X-factor while these 2 players could fall flat Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports /
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Boston Celtics
Boston Celtics big man Robert Williams (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

Robert Williams III

While this may not be what many want to hear, hoping for the best and preparing for the worst could be what many need. There is no secret that Williams is arguably the most impactful player on the team. Williams’ presence alone can sway a game one way or another. When he’s on the floor, he is a threat to block a shot into the third row at any given time.

But the key words there are “when he’s on the floor.”

The 25-year-old has dealt with nagging injuries since his rookie season, and his availability may be the biggest concern. Timelord rushed back last season for the playoffs and seemingly wasn’t himself all postseason. His explosiveness wasn’t the same, and his ability to make game-winning plays took a hit. The injury led to the Boston Celtics starting center missing the start of the season before returning to get injured again. The big man has only played 33 games this season and has yet to get a consistent stretch in this season.

A healthy Timelord could change the Celtics’ dynamic on its own, but the fearful part is his ability to have availability for a long postseason run.

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