The Boston Celtics' interest in adding a big man at next month's NBA trade deadline is well-documented. Neemias Queta has played well above expectations all season, but the Celtics need more center depth if they want to make another championship push. Now that the Celtics are seemingly playoff-bound, the idea of adding a two-way presence on the interior makes a ton of sense.
Yet, the Celtics must go after the right big man. NBA insider Chris Mannix reported recently that the Celtics "are looking at and have discussed internally" Ivica Zubac and Robert Williams III. While Zubac would be a no-brainer addition, trading back for Williams would be a big mistake.
Celtics Should Avoid a Robert Williams Reunion Before Trade Deadline
Williams is a crowd favorite in Boston, and for good reason. Drafted and developed by the Celtics, Time Lord has played a large role in Boston's 2022 NBA Finals run. Returning early from a meniscus tear for the playoffs, Williams was an integral contributor for the Celtics, especially defensively.
While it's important to remember what the 28-year-old center has given the Celtics during his time in Boston, bringing him back is not the best idea.
Since getting traded to the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2023 offseason, Williams has only played in 52 games. He is currently in the midst of his healthiest season in Portland, but even then, he has already missed 13 games so far. He still doesn't play on back-to-backs and averages 15.7 minutes per game. His availability is too big a concern for a team with real aspirations like the Celtics.
When he is on the court, Williams can still help with rim protection and rebounding. He is a capable and willing passer who can keep the ball moving offensively. But he is no longer the rim runner and lob threat he was earlier in his career.
Especially considering that Williams makes $13.2 million this season, per Spotrac, matching salaries will be difficult in a trade. He is on an expiring contract, so the Celtics won't be taking on too much on their books going forward; however, they still would have to part ways with Anfernee Simons or Sam Hauser to make the financials work this season, and at this point in his career, Williams is not worth trading either player for.
Boston has to aim higher than Williams if it is going to trade for a center. With the Clippers playing better now, Zubac may be a pipe dream. Still, the Celtics have to explore other options before giving the Trail Blazers a call for their former center.