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Why Monty Williams should’ve signed with the Boston Celtics

Griffin Crest / NBA / June 2, 2023

Monty Williams Pistons — Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images

Why Monty Williams should’ve signed with the Boston Celtics

Despite inking a league-leading deal with the Detroit Pistons, Monty Williams could’ve had better jobs at his fingertips. One job could’ve included the Boston Celtics, before Brad Stevens assured Joe Mazzulla of the head coaching position next season. Now, with Williams with the Pistons, here is why he should’ve signed with the Celtics instead.

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Star-Studded Roster

The Boston Celtics have one of the youngest and most talented rosters in the NBA. The team has reached the Eastern Conference Finals five times in the last seven years, dating back to the 2016-17 season. Behind two All-NBA players in Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, the Celtics would surround Williams with championship aspirations.

Defense

Although the Celtics defense took a step down from last year, they’re still one of the best in the league. Behind guys like Robert Williams, Derrick White and former Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart, the Celtics hold one of the best defensive cores in the league. With the former Suns coach at the helm, he could transform into an even better defensive team than the team in 2022-23.

Experience

Boston is packed with experience on their roster, with the team only missing the playoffs once since the 2007-08 season. Add Williams’ leadership and taste of NBA Finals experience, it’s a match made in heaven for the Celtics and him.

Although Williams chose the Pistons, was that really the best option on the table? Probably not. Yes, they have the young core and loads of potential, but they need to take four to five years to develop into a playoff squad. He may have gotten the money upfront, but winning as a coach is the most important, and with the Celtics, you’ll get that right now.