You can understand the thinking. With Boston Celtics defensive mastermind Marcus Smart sidelined with an illness and oblique injury, why not play the guy who is considered a mirror image of Marcus Smart in his place?
Such is the case with rookie forward Grant Williams, who the team — most notably Smart – has taken to because of his infectious energy, hustle and… well… smarts. Though playing inconsistent minutes in Stevens’ rotation due to the team’s depth, flexibility and at times his own poor play, Celtics head coach Brad Stevens has opted to start Williams in place of Smart against the Miami Heat on Wednesday.
Grant Williams will make his first NBA start for Marcus Smart tonight.
Celtics starters Vs. Miami
Walker
Brown
Tatum
G Williams
Theis— Sean Grande (@SeanGrandePBP) December 5, 2019
Williams, the 22nd overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, has averaged 2.2 points, 2.2 rebounds, 0.8 assists, 0.7 blocks and 0.4 steals in 14.8 minutes per game, shooting just 25.9% from the field (including 0-22 shooting from three).
However, his offense — and his statistics in general — won’t matter as much as his ability to play solid defense all over the floor, make smart decisions on the floor, and continue to make game-changing plays.