Robert Williams’ Game 4 performance shows importance to pursuit of Banner 18

The Celtics needed a role player to step up in Game 4 in a hostile environment on the road against the Hawks. They found that with Robert Williams, who had a historic and much-needed performance off the bench, to help the Celtics take a commanding 3-1 series lead.

Robert Williams had an impressive double-double with 13 points and 15 rebounds to go along with two steals and two blocks. Williams put himself in the same category as Bill Walton with this performance, which shows the type of impact he can have moving forward.

The area where Williams was effective was around the rim, and it completely changed the course of the game because he dominated the paint. Williams made key plays down the stretch by being a target around the rim, and he made the Hawks players think twice about challenging him around the basket.

However, the most important play Williams made the whole night was in the fourth quarter when he dove on the floor to give the Celtics another possession. He tapped the ball to Jaylen Brown, and it served as the dagger for the C’s.

Robert Williams is a difference-maker in the Celtics’ pursuit of Banner 18

The performance from Williams reinforces how most Celtics fans feel in that he is the difference maker for Boston, and his health and availability are of the utmost importance. With a healthy Williams, the Celtics are a full level above all the other contenders in the league. I think the Celtics should continue to bring him off the bench in spot minutes when needed and then use him in the final five lineups. Being able to close with a rested Williams is the key to these strong finishes in the clutch.

Ultimately, the importance of managing Robert Williams will grow as the Celtics progress in the postseason. If the C’s can get the best version of Williams for three more rounds, they have a great shot at Banner 18.