The Boston Celtics won't have Robert Williams for the remainder of their road trip, and the rookie big man will be day-to-day with a strained groin when the team returns to Boston. The Celtics finish their road trip with a game against the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday and the San Antonio Spurs on Monday.
#NEBHInjuryReport Brad Stevens says Rob Williams is out for the remainder of this trip and will likely be day-to-day once we return to Boston.
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) December 29, 2018
Williams has found it hard to find consistent playing time on a team with a crowded frontcourt. That being said, he has shown flashes of brilliance in his time on the floor. Most notably, Williams is showcasing his potential as an elite rim protector.
He's averaging 1.6 blocks despite playing fewer than nine minutes per game. He's averaging a ridiculous 6.3 blocks per 36 minutes. Of course, if he began playing more minutes, that number is likely to decrease. But for now, it is an example of the potential he has as a shot blocker.
The Celtics' frontcourt is somewhat thin considering the team will also be without Aron Baynes, who is currently out indefinitely with a broken hand. The absences of Baynes and Williams have opened up the door for Daniel Theis to assume a bigger role. The German-born Theis is a bit undersized at 6-foot-8, but he makes up for that with his ability to stretch the defense with his shot. Theis is currently shooting 40.3 percent from deep this season.
Injuries are a fact of life in the NBA, but the Celtics are one of the best teams at filling in the gaps. They'd love to have Robert Williams back as soon as possible, but don't expect them to rush their promising rookie back before he's ready.
Follow Us
Subscribe