The Boston Celtics now have a shiny new toy in the middle, as they have signed rookie big man Robert Williams to a deal, per Brian Robb of the Boston Sports Journal.

While the specifics of the deal remain unknown, the important thing for Boston, and especially for Williams, is that the paper works are now done and they are ready to concentrate on their preparation for the 2018-19 season. The Celtics can consider themselves lucky that a lottery-talent like Williams still found a way to land on their laps as the 27th pick overall in last month’s NBA Draft.

Conversely, Williams can also view his signing with Boston as more than just as a fortunate development, considering that he was not doing a fine job exemplifying professionalism since he was taken off the board in the draft by the Celtics. First, Williams dozed off during his introductory conference call, then he missed the flight that would have brought him to his first practice with the Celtics. Basically, he’s done more to frustrate Boston than excite the storied franchise thus far.

Article Continues Below

Hopefully, for the Celtics, Williams will get it together soon, as they are not a team with spare time to attend to their players’ immaturities. The Celtics are expected to be one of the serious contenders for the Eastern Conference title next season, especially after the departure of LeBron James from the East.

Williams, who stands 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot-4 wingspan, moves quite nimble for a man his size and is also a defensive powerhouse, making excellent use of his athleticism and physical gifts.

It’s all about staying the course and learning to be a professional for Williams if he wants to make an impact right away in the NBA.