NBA Draft 2018: Celtics take Robert Williams at No. 27
The Boston Celtics got exactly the type of player they needed in rim-running center Robert Williams at No. 27.
Robert Williams has all the makings to be a prototypical center in today’s NBA. He averaged 10.4 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks in 30 games at Texas A&M last season. He’s good in pick-and-roll situations, runs the floor well, and blocks shots. He’s drawn comparisons to Clint Capela, which is exactly the type of player any NBA team would love.
Some people question his attitude and work ethic. I wouldn’t be concerned about that if I’m a Celtics fan. Their culture and the wizardry of Brad Stevens will turn Williams into a player who competes on every possession.
The Celtics are in a great position. They have tremendous young talent in Terry Rozier, Jaylen Brown, and Jayson Tatum, all of whom look like future All-Stars after just their first and second seasons in the league. Al Horford is the consummate professional who compliments any team. Oh yeah, they’ll be getting a healthy Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward next season. This team isn’t missing anything.
At the tail end of the first round, teams are looking for guys with upside. The Celtics have proven to be outstanding when it comes to player development over the years. Williams was thought to be a top-10 pick after his freshman season. Many thought he would still end up in the lottery on Thursday night. The talent is unquestionably there and this could be a steal for the Celtics.
This is exactly the type of player Boston needs. Aron Baynes did a serviceable job for the Celtics in 2017-18, but they were so desperate for rim protection and rebounding that they went out and signed Greg Monroe. They need a low-maintenance offensive player who can finish lobs, clean up misses, and alter shots in the paint. At this pick, he’s an absolute steal for Boston.