The Boston Celtics drafted Robert Williams III with the 27th pick in the 2018 NBA Draft. Unfortunately for the highly explosive big man, he has struggled with injuries throughout his career, playing more than 50 regular-season games in just two of his seven years in the league.
When healthy, Williams is one of the best rim-runners in the NBA. His presence in the paint alters shots. His timing makes him a rim-protecting menace, nd on offense, he is an underrated passer and an elite lob threat. He was a key part of Boston’s run to the 2022 NBA Finals under Ime Udoka.
Nevertheless, Williams was shipped out of Boston in the summer of 2023 as part of the deal that landed Jrue Holiday with the franchise. Despite a fresh start, Williams’ injury struggles have continued. He’s played in 40 regular-season games since joining the Portland Trail Blazers.
According to NBA Insider Jake Fischer, Portland is now open to trading Williams, assuming a reasonable offer crosses its desk.
“I’ve also been told that Portland is forecasted to be more willing to move Robert Williams III this season compared to last season, when the Trail Blazers maintained a high asking price for the oft-injured big man,” Fischer wrote in a Nov. 26 edition of The Stein Line Newsletter.
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Given his inability to stay healthy, it is hard to project which team, if any, would have been interested in acquiring Williams via trade. After all, he will become an unrestricted free agent next summer and be free to sign with any NBA team.
Still, there should be a handful of teams that can talk themselves into the upside that Williams brings when healthy. He is only 28, so he is just entering his prime. If he can finally find a way to stay healthy, he could be a significant addition to a contending roster. Unfortunately, trading for Williams is the definition of a dice roll. His addition comes with risk.
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