Boston Celtics: Way too early starting lineup prediction for 2021-22

Center: Center-by-Committee (Al Horford and Robert Williams)

The center position is a wild-card for the Celtics. We saw mid-way through last season Robert Williams get thrust into the starting lineup where he proved to be a versatile player as a shot-blocker, rim-runner, and even a playmaker in the high post.

We also saw the Celtics add a familiar face this summer in Al Horford when he was traded back to the east coast in exchange for Kemba Walker and the 16th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft.

Many thought Horford’s career was on a downward spiral, but he proved in just 28 games before being shut down by the Thunder (tanking reasons) that he still has a lot left to offer, averaging 14.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game on .450/.368 shooting splits.

Two starting-caliber centers on the roster with only one starting spot. With this dilemma, the route the Celtics could go is a center-by-committee approach.

Williams has worked on a mid-range jump shot, but he will find a majority of his offensive opportunities in the paint. He has flashed great vision and is a player who keeps the ball moving within the flow of the offense.

More from Boston Celtics

• Why the new and improved Celtics are a major threat
• These two Celtics will be crucial to unlocking Kristaps Porzingis’ potential
• The new-look Celtics are closer than ever to an 18th title
• 3 Reasons Boston will regret trading Marcus Smart
• Ranking the 5 best available power forwards in 2023 NBA free agency

Horford can be more of a floor-spacer and spot-up shooter in the corners. Horford is also a willing playmaker who is always a read ahead of others on the floor.

Defensively both are as solid as you could ask for. Williams is a high-flying shot-blocker who can protect the paint with the best of them. Horford is going to give you versatility on switches and can defend nearly every position when needed.

The Celtics can really go about this by deciding how they want their starting unit to play and also switch things up depending on who they play against.

Horford may be better suited for a matchup with someone like Joel Embiid while Robert Williams may thrive in a matchup against Clint Capela.

It wouldn’t even be surprising to see Ime Udoka throw out a lineup with Horford at the four and Williams at the five. They certainly should give every lineup combination a fair shot to find out what makes them the most successful team they can be.

It may be best to have Robert Williams come off the bench to prevent injuries, something that has been an unfortunate constant for the young big man. The same could also be said about Horford, who is entering his age-35 season.

Both will be focal points to Boston’s success this season and both will be impactful no matter the role they receive as a starter or reserve.

As Brad Stevens once said, “It shouldn’t matter who starts, it shouldn’t matter who plays, it shouldn’t matter who finishes, it matters if you win. That’s it.”

The Celtics are looking to get back to their winning ways, and Ime Udoka will put the lineup out on the floor that does just that.