Grant Williams, one of the most notable free agents left on the market, reportedly has a new team. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Williams is heading to the Dallas Mavericks via sign-and-trade with the Boston Celtics.
As part of the deal, which also includes the San Antonio Spurs, Williams is getting a five-year, $53 million deal. The Celtics will get two second-rounders while the Spurs land forward Reggie Bullock from Dallas. The agreement will also see the Mavs receiving two second-round selections.
Williams emerged as a valuable contributor for the Celtics in 2022-23 and was expected to assume an even more prominent role last season. However, Boston’s new head coach Joe Mazzulla didn’t seem too eager to expand his role.
The 24-year-old player ended up playing similar minutes in 2022-23 while averaging 8.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game, all career highs. Still, his playing time took a dip in the playoffs, where he spent just 17.7 minutes on the floor on average.
Williams underwent surgery on his hand this offseason but is expected to be ready in time for training camp. He might end up being a great acquisition for the Mavs, considering his ability to defend the team’s best players and efficient three-point shooting.
