The Boston Celtics have focused on molding sophomore big man Robert Williams into a more reliable player on both ends of the floor this offseason. Austin Ainge, director of player personnel for Boston, gave his thoughts on Williams' future and working with him to improve consistency, via Brian Robb of the Boston Sports Journal:
“Robert is super talented and he does a lot of things that are special and unique,” Austin Ainge said. “As with every young player, we’re just trying to help him with consistency. If he can play his best more consistently, he’s going to be a very good player. We’re just trying to develop those habits and help him become a more consistent player, earn minutes and help us out. We’re very high on him, not only his long-term future, but this year. He will have a chance to fight for minutes.”
Williams showed flashes of becoming an impact player last season, but never truly impressed. He averaged 2.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in 33 games for Boston.
The Celtics lost big man Al Horford in the offseason, and they badly need their big men to step up to replace Horford's production on defense and offense. Newcomer Enes Kanter should help offensively, but the Celtics still need a big who can hold down the defense in the paint.
If Robert Williams can develop quickly, he could become that rim protector the Celtics need this season.
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