The Boston Celtics agreed to terms with the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday to acquire guard Jrue Holiday. As part of the agreement, the Celts were required to transfer centre Robert Williams III to Portland. When he learned of Williams III’s departure, Boston’s top forward Jayson Tatum couldn’t disguise his disappointment.
Tatum expressed his disappointment with the team’s decision to trade away Williams III in an emotional Instagram post. “This one was painful. Right here, my buddy. Toughest part of this business (sic), thank you for everything,” Tatum wrote on the post, which included a photo of Tatum and Williams III on the floor together.
Tatum encouraged the newest Blazer by saying, “Keep striving to be special and never change who you are.” My dawg 4L until we reunite. “There is nothing but love.”
Tatum had a busy day giving well wishes, as well as writing a nice message to Malcolm Brogdon. Brogdon was also involved in the Celtics-Trail Blazers deal.In a sad irony, Williams III had been gushing about Boston and the upcoming season only hours before the deal was announced. He was eager to regain his full health and return to the court. He’ll be playing for the Trail Blazers the next time he steps on the court.
Williams III, a Celtics first-round pick in 2018, has spent his entire five-year NBA career with the team. Williams III, nicknamed “Time Lord” by Celtics fans due to his habit for missing team activities in the past, offered great defence for the club.
Williams III’s athleticism generated many highlights of him blocking shots and finishing alley-oops. He’ll now take his high-flying skills to the West Coast. At least one former Celtics teammate is sure to miss him.
Tatum will face his former colleague for the first time on March 11th in Portland.
