BOSTON — Amari Williams got his first career NBA start last game against the Bulls, but he wasn’t able to make much of an impact then. But as the Celtics leaned on him for a career-high in minutes in their victory over the Trail Blazers, it was clear the rookie felt more comfortable this time around.
Williams impressed all night in the Celtics’ 102-94 win over the Blazers on Monday, looking like a potential future NBA contributor. C’s coach Joe Mazzulla said Portland was a better matchup for Williams compared to Chicago, noting the rookie played well.
“This matchup really suited him, and his strengths were kind of highlighted in his ability to set screens for us and his ability to help protect the rim and rebound,” Mazzulla said. “But it’s also his work ethic. Our system is constantly changing, and so you have to be able to make reads on the fly on both ends of the floor.”
Williams finished with career-highs across the board, putting up nine points and seven rebounds in 26 minutes played. He matched up against former C’s big man Robert Williams III throughout the night. Williams is known for his excellent passing, though he didn’t get to showcase that much facing the Blazers.
Monday marked the third straight game where Williams played an important role for the Celtics. Starter Neemias Queta has battled an illness recently, opening up available minutes. Plus, backup Luka Garza was unavailable against the Blazers due to his own illness. That meant Williams was slotted to contribute Monday as he made the most of his opportunities.
“Amari did a great job today,” Jaylen Brown said. “I thought he looked exceptional. He came out, he protected the rim. He was where he was supposed to be for the most part. Amari made it easy for us tonight.”
The Celtics have rolled with Queta and Garza throughout most of the season for their big man rotation. Josh Minott played some small-ball center for a stretch, but the C’s have gone away from that look. With Queta and Garza both dealing with recent illnesses, it’s no surprise to see Williams leaned on for more minutes.
Williams, who turns 24 Wednesday, was picked 46th overall by the Celtics in this past draft. He’s played mostly in the G League with the Maine Celtics this season, but he’s gotten some spot minutes. Williams was leaned on against the Pistons back on Nov. 26, and he admitted that night was all a blur. But it’s clear the game is slowing down for him as evidenced by his play facing the Blazers.
“I thought he did great,” Payton Pritchard said. “His rebounding, boxing out, protecting the rim. We’ve gotta use Amari more for his passing ability because he can really pass.”
