Boston’s Robert Williams III ready to tangle with Joel Embiid, 76ers

Boston Celtics reserve center Robert Williams III is ready to put his full range of skills to the test against the Philadelphia 76ers.

Boston Celtics reserve center Robert Williams III is ready for his first real postseason run, having shown he can contribute at a high level off the bench in the Celtics’ seeding games of the Disney restart.

Speaking in a recent Zoom interview with the media, Time Lord was keen to note that success for Boston will be a product of their collective effort, and ability to play connected.

“I’ll just say we’re focused in on [that] we’re the only fans that we have [in the arena]; we’re here by ourselves, so we just have to lock in mentally, all together,” he explained. “And I feel like me, including all of my teammates and coaches, we’ve been doing a great job with it.”

As to what he needs to do for his part of that group effort? More of the same, if we’re being honest.

“I’ve just got to build off of what I’ve been doing; stay humble,” suggested Williams, “that’s the biggest thing; just stay ready physically and mentally.”

How does one prepare mentally for having to face Philly’s All-Star center Joel Embiid in the playoffs?

“For a guy like me, not that particularly strong on the level of those guys, you’ve just got to do your work early. You can’t let him get to his money spots, get to his sweet spots — just make him work as much as you can.”

This is, incidentally, what most analysts see as Boston’s best path to victory — making the 7-footer tired by having to do it all for his team.

The combination of having to adjust to Time Lord’s athletic verticality, Daniel Theis’ speed and shooting, and Enes Kanter’s strength should go a long way towards that end.

And if Williams indeed stays humble while bringing his unique energy and skill set, the Celtics have more than a good chance of advancing to the second round.

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