Joe Mazzulla Speaks On Decision To Bench Grant Williams

Williams is unexpectedly kept out of Boston's match-up against the Cavaliers.

Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

The Boston Celtics prevailed over the Cleveland Cavaliers, but a familiar face was missing from their rotation.

For the first time since May of 2021, Grant Williams received a Did Not Play - Coach's Decision. Williams is averaging a career-high 8.4 points and 4.8 rebounds this season, appearing in 61 of the Celtics’ past 63 games.

Joe Mazzulla took to the podium to explain his decision to rule out the 6-foot-6 forward.

"Just matchups on the offensive end, as far as spacing the floor and having rim protection." Mazzulla told NBC Sports Boston.

The Celtics’ head coach favored Mike Muscala for Boston’s offensive scheme against Cleveland.

Jaylen Brown weighed in on William’s absence. He acknowledged the struggle of navigating a talented roster and expressed praise towards the former Tennessee stand-out.

"Everybody is sacrificing to some extent." said Brown to NBC Sports Boston. “This is a moment of adversity for Grant. I know he’s going to be able to respond well to it. He’s a good kid, who has value, and a good guy in the locker room. We’re all figuring it out, the moving pieces, as we’re getting ready for the play-offs.”

Williams’ status for Friday night against the Brooklyn Nets is to be determined.

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