Ime Udoka Says He's "Happy with the Progress" Robert Williams is Making, But Reiterates it'll "probably be a full series without him"

The Celtics are pleased with the progression of Robert Williams' recovery, but the expectation remains he will not return during their first-round series against the Nets.

Bobby Krivitsky | Apr 13, 2022

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Wednesday, Ime Udoka reiterated the Celtics do not anticipate Robert Williams returning in the first round of the playoffs; it's the same message he delivered before the regular-season finale against the Grizzlies.

"Doing a little bit more every day. He's looking good and in good spirits. We're happy with the progress, but at the same time, we understand it's going to take time and probably be a full series without him. He's out on the court. Doing some shooting drills, some touch work. We're still preparing for a series without him."

Celtics star Jayson Tatum, who also spoke with the media on Wednesday, talked about what it's been like playing without Williams. "We definitely miss him. He's so important to our team on both ends of the floor, so everybody's trying to adjust and pick up the slack when he's not out there."

Williams, who underwent a partial left knee meniscectomy to address a left knee meniscal tear, is on a 4-6 week timetable. Game 5 between the Celtics and Nets is on Apr. 27, four weeks from his surgery.

While that leaves the door open for the Timelord to return in Round 1, as Udoka has stated consistently, that's unlikely, and Boston is preparing to play the entire series without him.

Further Reading

The Schedule is Set for Celtics' First-Round Series Against Nets

Nets Beat Cavs, Securing Playoff Rematch with the Celtics

Celtics Earn 2-Seed; Showdown with Nets Likely Awaits

Ime Udoka on the Celtics' Plan for Season Finale: "Let's do what we do and let the chips fall where they may"

Gary Payton Endorses Marcus Smart for Defensive Player of the Year

[Film Room] In Sunday's Win Against the Wizards, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown's Growth as Facilitators was Evident

Published Apr 13, 2022

BOBBY KRIVITSKY

Bobby Krivitsky's experiences include covering the NBA as a credentialed reporter for Basketball Insiders. He's also a national sports talk host for SportsMap Radio, a network airing on 96 radio stations throughout the country. Additionally, he was a major-market host, update anchor, and producer for IMG Audio, and he worked for Bleacher Report as an NFL and NBA columnist.