After Game 1 of the Eastern Conference first-round playoff series between the Boston Celtics and Brooklyn Nets was decided on a buzzer-beater , many thought that the best-of-seven set was destined to go the distance. Instead, the Celtics became the only team in the NBA playoffs to complete a first-round sweep, despite missing starting center Robert Williams for the first two contests.
Williams made his return in Game 3, and now appears to be a full-go for the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Robert Williams: "I'm feeling good. Feeling great ... no pain at all. knee is responding well."
— John Karalis (@John_Karalis) April 27, 2022
The Boston big man played 15 minutes in Game 3 and recorded just two points, two rebounds and one block while converting his only field goal attempt. In the Game 4 clincher, Williams finished with three points and five rebounds in 14 minutes, but went just one-for-four from the field and picked up four fouls.
The fourth-year pro posted career highs this season in points (10.0), rebounds (9.6), blocks (2.2), assists (2.0) and minutes per game (29.6), while also shooting a career-best 73.6 percent from the field and 72.2 percent from the free-throw line.
The Celtics will take on the winner of the Milwaukee Bucks-Chicago Bulls series in the next round. The Bucks currently lead that series 3-1 and will look to close out the Bulls on Wednesday night.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!