The Boston Celtics are proving doubters wrong this season. In what many thought would be a rebuilding year, Joe Mazzulla’s team sits third in the Eastern Conference with the second-best offensive rating in the NBA. If Boston keeps playing at this level, a deep playoff run could be possible.
However, Brad Stevens might need to improve the center rotation to make that happen. During the summer, Boston lost Kristaps Porzingis through a trade. They also lost Al Horford and Luke Kornet in free agency. While Neemias Queta and Luka Garza have played well, Mazzulla needs at least one more big man to protect the paint.
According to Heavy.com, Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix said that Stevens could target Robert Williams III to fill that gap. “He’s got familiarity with the personnel. He’s been very close over the years with Jayson Tatum. You know, that’s somebody that I think the Celtics will be keeping their eye on and maybe talking to Portland about in the weeks and months ahead, or I guess weeks really only ahead,” he explained.
Operation Sports App
Your ultimate companion for sports gaming. Access in-depth coverage, thoughtful discussion, and a community built around the games—and sports—you love.
Your ultimate sports gaming companion.
Williams brings the defense and energy Boston needs
Williams played five seasons with the Celtics from 2018 to 2023. His shot-blocking and ability to finish above the rim would be perfect for how the Celtics play now. When healthy, he became one of the best defensive big men in the NBA. He provided shot-blocking and changed how opponents attacked the basket.
However, Williams has dealt with injuries throughout his career. His time with the Portland Trail Blazers has been especially tough. In his first season with Portland, Williams played only six games. Last season, he suited up just 20 times. While some stars face challenges staying with their teams, Williams’ situation is purely health-related. Across eight NBA seasons, Williams has played only 261 games total.
Stevens would need to carefully consider the risks and rewards of bringing Williams back before the trade deadline. Boston is only looking for a new center because they didn’t keep their championship-winning big men. Luke Kornet was probably the most logical player Stevens should have tried to keep.
But Kornet got a big pay raise from the San Antonio Spurs. He signed a four-year, $40 million contract. Before Boston’s 100-95 loss to San Antonio on Saturday, Jan. 10, Kornet explained why he left. He said the choice came down to San Antonio and Boston. After talking with his wife and praying about it, they felt ready for a different chapter in life. Athletes often share personal updates through social media when making major life decisions.
With Kornet gone, bringing Williams back could make sense. He knows the core group of players and has experience playing in Boston. He also worked with Joe Mazzulla when Mazzulla was an assistant coach under Brad Stevens and Ime Udoka. Whether Boston thinks the benefits are worth Williams’ injury history remains unclear.
Published: Jan 12, 2026 11:00 am