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Boston Celtics: Top 3 performances in opening night thriller vs Knicks

By Tarringo Basile-vaughan

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 20: Head coach Ime Udoka of the Boston Celtics directs his team during the second half against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on October 20, 2021 in New York City. The Knicks won 138-134. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 20: Head coach Ime Udoka of the Boston Celtics directs his team during the second half against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on October 20, 2021 in New York City. The Knicks won 138-134. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) /
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Boston Celtics
Boston Celtics Robert Williams (Photo by Steven Ryan/Getty Images) /

2. Boston Celtics big man Robert Williams makes his time count

Another young player looking for make the most of his opportunity is big man Robert Williams.

With Al Horford out, the 24-year-old athletic center played a career-high 45 minutes against the Knicks on Wednesday, and he made it count.

Related Story. Robert Williams attacking the rim like a grown man. light

Putting up Horford like numbers with 16 points, 10 rebounds and 5 blocks, the man known as “The Timelord” made his time on the court count and really showed that he is ready to be the team’s top big man.

"“As far as the 45 minutes it’s what I’ve been wanting, right?  Williams said following the game, as transcribed by MassLive.com. “So mentally I was ready, prepared for a third overtime if that was the case. But it’s for sure something I’ve been wanting, so I’m ready.”"

Although Williams was involved in the defensive lapse that led to the Fournier go-ahead three at the end of the second overtime, he was effective around the rim the entire game.

Obviously, it was his athleticism that stood out as he ran the floor for some easy buckets like this one with an assist from Marcus Smart:

While most of the night he teamed in the front court with Grant Williams, it will be interesting to see going forward how much more effective Robert Williams will be teamed with Al Horford.  With the veteran big man back in the mix, it should open up things even more for Williams who will have opportunities around the rim on both ends of the court to make things happen.

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