I covered the 2018 NBA draft for another blog, and when Rob Williams fell to the Celtics with the 27th overall pick, I was both elated and worried. Here's why (via Wikipedia):
Williams fell to the 27th overall pick where he was selected by the Boston Celtics due to concerns about his work ethic. On July 5, 2018, the Boston Celtics signed Williams.[ Williams did not initially make a good impression, being criticized for showing up late and missing team functions. His reputation for missing flights and video meetings caused him to earn the moniker "Timelord" on online Boston Celtics fandoms.
These were not good initial signs. But, hey, Sam Jones missed his first team meeting following Red Auerbach taking him in the draft - and look how that worked out. On Sam's side, he told me no one informed him of the meeting, but Red's, "Where the f--- were you" had to be tough for the rookie.
Then there were the knee issues. Restricted blood flow to the lower legs seemed a killer for future stardom in the NBA, but Brad Stevens signed him to a solid extension, so if the Head Honcho has that type of confidence in Rob's future, then so do I.
This young athlete can solve a lot of Boston 's issues with a healthy, productive season. I have not seen that level of athleticism in a Celtics uniform since Bill Russell ran the parquet. But beyond that, the youngster's savvy has surfaced, and he undoubtedly has skills beyond quickness and leaping ability. He is a joy to watch on both ends of the court.
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