Jayson Tatum and the Boston Celtics still own the best record in the NBA at 28-12, but have a slim one-game lead over the Brooklyn Nets. Just over a month ago, Robert Williams made his 12/13 season debut after missing the first 29 games of the season. It took some time, but Williams now has enough games to be confident in what he can do on the court. That’s why his teammates are asking for him to have a bigger role going forward.
In nine games this season, Williams is averaging 8/8/1 in 19.4 minutes per game. He’s no longer on a minutes restriction and his teammates are wondering why his role hasn’t increased if he’s been getting healthy.
Massachusetts sports betting sites have the Celtics at (+400) to win the Finals this season. In 61 regular season games last season, Williams averaged less than 30 minutes per game. A significant difference in the location of this season.
#NEBHInjury Report Update
Danilo Gallinari (left knee ACL repair) – out
Marcus Smart (left knee sprain) – Out https://t.co/YxVPShcq0t— Boston Celtics (@celtics) January 9, 2023
Robert Williams’ teammates want to see him move forward in an increased role
In Boston’s final game against the Spurs, Williams had a season-best 10 points and 11 rebounds along with four blocks. After seeing his performance on Saturday, his teammates are calling for an increased role.
“We need Rob. Rob is amazing,… “Rob has a unique ability offensively and defensively, which we’ve been able to see a little bit of this year, especially last year. So the more we integrate and use it, the better our team becomes. We got off to a good start, playing a different ball to the other boys, but I think it’s important to make Rob a vital part of attack and defense on the line and in the game. I think it’s something we’ll have to look at as we get closer to the playoffs.” – Jaylen Brown
Even superstar Jayson Tatum is wondering if Williams’ role has not increased and he has to question whether he’s on a minutes ban. Both Tatum and Brown know how important Williams was to Boston’s playoff run last season. Giving him an additional role will not only increase his confidence, but also build his overall chemistry with other members of the team.
His teammates want him to succeed with the team when he stays healthy and know that the only way forward is to make the team better. Head coach Joe Mazzula should sit down with Williams and discuss his plans moving forward.
