Atlanta Hawks guard Lou Williams got the first playoff start of his career in Game 4 against the Milwaukee Bucks due to Trae Young's foot injury. Williams responded with a huge game, going for 21 points and eight assists while shooting an efficient 7-of-9 from the field.
Williams learned he would be starting in place of Young while he was on the training table ahead of Game 4. Hawks head coach Nate McMillan delivered the news, and Williams was cool and collected upon hearing it with a simple “OK.” After the game, the veteran joked about his demeanor upon learning the news.
Via Paul Newberry of The Associated Press:
“It’s not like a ‘Remember The Titans’ thing happens in the locker room, I can promise you that,” Williams said with a wry smile. ”That was the extent of our conversation, and then we had to get ready for the game.”
McMillan didn't have to channel his inner Denzel Washington to give some big rah-rah speech. Williams was all business as he took the news in stride and then went out and put forth a terrific performance to help the Hawks get a 110-88 win. Atlanta is now tied 2-2 as the series shifts back to Milwaukee for a crucial Game 5.
Williams could get the call to start once again in Game 5. It's unclear if Young will be ready to play in Thursday's game. If Young isn't able to go, Williams will certainly be ready to fill in admirably once again. Williams has been around a long time and isn't fazed by anything, even if Tuesday represented his first time starting in the playoffs.
Meanwhile, the Bucks could be without Giannis Antetokounmpo, so this series is becoming a war of attrition. The Titans certainly knew something about that in the film.
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