ESPN Ranks Celtics’ Grant Williams Among Important Rookies For NBA Restart

For current NBA rookies, their first year in the league has been anything but normal.

With an increased potential for injuries after the break, or the chance of contracting the coronavirus, some of these first-year players could have to step into a bigger role should a veteran not be able to play.

ESPN’s Mike Schmitz ranked the top 12 rookies who could make the biggest impact upon the league’s return, and Boston Celtics’ forward Grant Williams ranked No. 10.

“Williams is a physical competitor with a strong feel for the game who can help impact winning,” Schmitz wrote. “I expect him to find a way to get on the floor for Boston in the postseason.

“He’s experienced, a smart positional defender and a high-motor offensive rebounder. More often than not, he makes the right reads offensively. His jump shot hasn’t quite translated yet, but he should be a contributor to the Celtics’ front line.”

The University of Tennessee product played 62 games, averaging 3.5 points, 2.7 rebounds, 1 assist, 0.5 blocks and 0.5 steals in 15.6 minutes per game before the league suspended its season.

He’s certainly made his presence known off the court, we’ll see if he keeps it up when he can finally get back on it.

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