Report: Robert Williams "Potential" Return During First Round Series

Now that the schedule has been drawn up for the Boston Celtics' first-round series with the Brooklyn Nets, observers have noted that injured Celtics center Robert Williams could potentially return as early as Game 5. 

There has been nothing but positive reports on Williams' recovery process since he had surgery on a torn meniscus on March 30th. The prognosis at that time was a 4-to-6 week recovery. But as noted by Darren Hartwell of NBC Sports Boston, there's been "real optimism" that the Celtics big man could return on the shorter end of that timeline. 

Exactly four weeks from the date of Williams' surgery lands smack dab on Game 5 in Boston, on April 27th. 

And while head coach Ime Udoka is still preparing for a series without his rim protector, the coach recently noted that the 24-year-old "is already doing two-a-day workouts and hopefully could return 'sooner than later.'" After practice today, while still hedging his bets, Udoka updated even further progress:

Ime Udoka on Rob Williams: "Doing a little bit more every day. He's looking good. We're happy with the progress. He's out on the court. Doing some shooting drills, some touch work. We're still preparing for a series without him."

— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) April 13, 2022

"Doing a little bit more every day," said the coach about Williams. "He's looking good. We're happy with the progress."

The Celtics finished the season 4-3 without Williams, but as Hartwell points out, "Williams is a game-changer on both ends of the floor." His breakout season included averages of 10 points per game, 9.6 rebounds and 2.2 blocks, while landing himself squarely in the conversation for All-Defensive Team. 

Photo Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports