Don't hit the panic button just yet, Boston Celtics fans.
The Celtics got some positive news on center Robert Williams, who suffered a torn meniscus in his left knee, as he reportedly could return by the second round of the playoffs.
ESPN Sources: After undergoing surgery for a torn meniscus in his left knee this morning, Boston Celtics C Robert Williams is expected to return within 4-to-6 weeks – a timetable that could land him back in the lineup as soon as the second-round of Eastern Conference playoffs.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) March 30, 2022
Williams has been a key piece for Boston as the anchor of one of the NBA’s best defenses. Boston ranks No. 1 in the NBA in defensive rating this season, and it has the second best net rating in the league as well.
Williams' absence will open up more playing time for Al Horford and Daniel Theis at the center position, but Boston at least has a light at the end of the tunnel for when Williams may return.
This season, Williams is averaging 10.0 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.2 blocks and 2.0 assists per game while shooting 73.6 percent from the field.
The best-case scenario for Boston from a timeline perspective. Williams has been a huge factor in the Celtics’ massive midseason turnaround. https://t.co/POPYYmwvxW
— Tim Bontemps (@TimBontemps) March 30, 2022
The Celtcs are currently the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference with a 47-29 record. Boston is just a game behind the top-seeded Miami Heat with six games remaining.
A first-round matchup against a tough team like the Brooklyn Nets could spell trouble for Boston, but if it can make it through, Williams could give the team an added boost the rest of the postseason.
WynnBET Sportsbook currently has Boston at +1000 odds to win the NBA Finals this season and +400 to win the Eastern Conference.
Find Peter Dewey’s full betting record in the NBA this season here.