The Celtics shook up their core this summer in the name of making some big moves as they saw multiple mainstays depart Boston. The shocking move was Marcus Smart as he was the team’s emotional leader, but the C’s also had Robert Williams III and Grant Williams leave.
That’s the cost of adding guys like Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis into the fold. Rob Williams figured to be part of the Celtics’ core going forward, but the Blazers were reportedly adamant he needed to be included in the deal. He also hasn’t been able to stay healthy throughout his career despite having game-changing talent at his best.
Rob Williams is now with the Blazers after being included in the Holiday deal as the C’s also sent out Malcolm Brogdon, the Warriors’ 2024 first-round pick and their own 2029 first. It’s the first time the big man had been traded in his career after spending his first five seasons in the NBA with the C’s. Williams made his first public comments with the Blazers since the trade Wednesday.
“You just realize it’s a business. Obviously coming into another great opportunity. Great team, great guys, great coaching staff. It’s been a great energy since I got here, man. So I’m excited.”
“Just kind of a learning stage. Helping me and Malcolm get acclimated. Really helping all of us learn. We’re kind of so young, like I said, we gotta lean on each other, support each other. So there’s a lot of hidden key points. Probably a little bit at the end, got after it a little bit. More of a learning practice, for sure.”
On if trade is easier coming with Brogdon…
“I mean, yeah, you could say that. I feel like no trade is easy, you know what I’m saying, especially your first one. But I got my dawg with me, so it made it a little bit (easier).”
On if it was disappointing to get traded…
“I mean, I feel like everybody is when that first trade happens. But like I said, I’m pretty content with knowing it’s a business. I got love for all those guys back there on that side always, and onto new beginnings.”
On what Blazers coach Chauncey Billups said he wants from him…
“Be myself, man. Be myself. Be a leader. Be vocal and go and encourage these guys.”
On if there are any conversations about starting or coming off the bench and role.
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