Report: Celtics and Grant Williams working together as free agency looms

The Boston Celtics and Grant Williams are reportedly working together ahead of free agency, and could even strike a deal to keep Williams in the Hub.

Difficult decisions loom for the Boston Celtics with free agency set to begin at 6 pm ET on Friday, June 30. Between swinging a deal for ex-All-Star Kristaps Porzingis and new restrictions thanks to an updated CBA, Boston’s front office will have its fair share of financial challenges in building a roster ahead of the 2023-24 season. Pending restricted free agent Grant Williams could be a casualty.

The Celtics will likely tender a qualifying offer on Williams worth $8.5 million, setting up restricted free agency for the former Vol. Williams is expected to receive lucrative offers from other teams, perhaps too rich for Boston’s blood. Per a new report, however, the Celtics and Williams are working together ahead of free agency, and the two sides could strike a deal to keep the fan favorite in the Hub.

Heavy’s Sean Deveney reports Boston and Williams are in contact and haven’t ruled out a deal to prolong Williams’ contract. Even if the two parties can’t agree on a deal, they will reportedly coordinate on finding Williams a new home by way of a sign-and-trade.