Celtics recall Robert Williams draft and key trades on June 21

On June 21, the Boston Celtics reflected on key moments in their history, including the draft of Robert Williams III in 2018 when he was selected 27th overall. Despite injuries affecting his career, Williams developed into a strong player, earning All-Defensive Second Team honors in his time with the Celtics before being traded to the Portland Trail Blazers in 2023. The same day marked the anniversary of a trade that sent Eric Montross to the Dallas Mavericks, allowing the Celtics to acquire draft assets that turned into Antoine Walker and Ron Mercer. Additionally, the franchise sold the rights of George Kaftan to the New York Knicks in 1950 after drafting him fourth overall the previous year.

• 10:01 AMYahoo Sports — Today in Boston Celtics history: Robert Williams draft; Eric Montross, George Kaftan trade