The Boston Celtics have a center problem to sort out, and a simple solution could be bringing back Robert Williams after a three-year stay in Portland. Rip City Project’s Reese Kunz predicted Williams wouldn’t return next season as he heads into free agency. The Blazers have drafted Donovan Clingan and Yang Hansen to fill their center minutes, which could force Williams to find a new home.
Neemias Queta blossomed into a starting center this season, but he still only played 25 minutes per game. Boston needs a partner to fill the 48 minutes every night. Luka Garza isn’t the answer in marquee games, and Nikola Vucevic is headed for free agency. The Celtics have a clear need and could try to re-sign a familiar big man.
Williams wasn’t happy to leave Boston when the Celtics traded him to land Jrue Holiday. It led to a championship, but that doesn’t mean they didn’t value Williams. He is coming off a healthy season and could be a fantastic fit back in Boston.
The Celtics should try to bring back Robert Williams
The playoffs had Boston fans even more hyped about a potential reunion. Williams averaged 9.6 points, 7.4 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.2 blocks in 21.6 minutes per game in the Blazers' five-game first round playoff series loss to the Spurs. He came off the bench behind Donovan Clingan, but still played a crucial role.
Celtics fans are familiar with his defense, rim protection, and finishing ability. Williams was a starter and key piece of the 2022 squad that lost to the Warriors in the NBA Finals. His ability to block shots, rebound, and get a few easy buckets has been boosted by a developing 3-point shot. The Celtics would love to help him take his jumper to the next level as they continue to focus on long range attempts.
The Celtics would have to use their mid-level exception to bring back Williams. It will be fascinating to see how his market shapes up in free agency. The 28-year-old big man played 59 games this season, but only appeared in 61 over the three previous years. Injuries have been a problem, which could allow Boston to swoop in and get a discount.
Fans should not expect to see Williams return to the Blazers. They have Clingan and Hansen locked in as their long-term options at the position. Williams is in his prime and wants to play. The 6’9 big man is best paired with another center to allow them both to maximize their 24-ish minutes per game. Queta and Rob Will could be perfect as the Celtics chase another title in 2027 and beyond.
The Boston Celtics drafted Robert Williams and helped him blossom into an All-Defensive center in 2022. He has been hampered by injuries since, but a healthy season came at the perfect time. The 6’9 big man will be searching for a new home this offseason, and there is no better place than returning to Beantown to chase a ring with the team that gave him his first NBA shot.
Hopefully, Brad Stevens makes it happen. Change is coming for Williams, and fans will have to stay tuned to see how it all plays out.
Add us as a preferred source on Google