Double Vision: Celtics’ Robert Williams returns to form

This space aims to identify players who represent good value for recording a double-double in a particular game. If they post double-digit totals in any two of the five main categories (points, rebounds, assists, blocks, steals), backers will at least double their money – and sometimes make much more than that.

The bet: A double-double for Celtics center Robert Williams (+390 Barstool)

After undergoing a second surgery on his left knee to reduce swelling, Williams missed the first month and a half of the season. He was more recently sidelined for eight games by a hamstring injury, and his playing time has been closely monitored in order to get him right for the playoffs.

Sunday’s win over the Hawks showed what a healthy Williams is capable of, as he scored 13 points and pulled down 15 rebounds. Despite coming off the bench, he logged 29 minutes of action and saw a whopping 22 rebound chances. The “Time Lord” was also sometimes paired with Al Horford in a return to the two-bigs lineup that had formerly been the starting unit.

Beyond avoiding another trip to Atlanta, the Celtics have additional incentive to close out the series tonight. Their next opponent would be the 76ers, who are already resting after sweeping the Nets. Philly center Joel Embiid was forced to sit out Game 4, and a Saturday start to the second-round series would give him less time to recover from his sprained knee.

But before engaging in a paint battle with him, Williams can ensure that marquee matchup by delivering another vintage performance.