Maine Celtics Coach Calls Big Man A ‘Monster’ With ‘High Upside’
The big man had 25 points, 11 rebounds and five assists on 10-for-12 shooting on Saturday
One “giant problem” has stood out amid the Boston Celtics’ uneven 6-7 start: defensive rebounding.
After losing centers Al Horford, Kristaps Porzingis and Luke Kornet over the offseason, the Celtics’ struggles on the glass haven’t been surprising.
Boston may want to look at its G League affiliate (the Maine Celtics) for some help on the boards.
Maine has its first home game of the season on Friday night against the Long Island Nets after dropping the first three contests of the campaign on the road.
One early standout for head coach Phil Pressey’s group has been center Amari Williams.
“Phil Pressey on Celtics’ 2nd-Rd picks Amari Williams and Max Shulga: ‘Max, he’s done a phenomenal job of running the show…I’ve put the ball in his hands and allowed him to grow through his mistakes,'” Celtics reporter Bobby Krivitsky posted on Bluesky. “‘Amari Williams, he’s a monster…I think he has a high upside.'”
Boston signed Williams to a two-deal in August after the rookie big man was acquired in a draft night trade with the Orlando Magic.
A three-time CAA Defensive Player of the Year, Williams averaged 6.2 points, 5.0 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 17.6 minutes per game during his four contests with the Celtics Summer League team.
The former Kentucky Wildcat had a huge game in Saturday’s 122-120 loss vs. the Greensboro Swarm, registering 25 points, 11 rebounds and five assists while shooting 10-for-12 from the floor.
If Williams continues his hot play, he could soon find his way onto Boston’s roster.
