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The Portland Path Blazers do not look like actively pursuing a commerce involving middle Robert Williams III.
In response to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the Path Blazers “aren’t desirous to half methods with Williams simply but” because the crew likes his match alongside younger guards Scoot Henderson and Anfernee Simons.
Fischer famous that there was “ongoing inbound curiosity” within the 27-year-old, as he is at present on the Los Angeles Lakers’ “wishlist” of facilities to focus on previous to the Feb. 6 commerce deadline.
It is simple to see why groups with playoff aspirations could be considering Williams, as his defensive acumen and athletic ending capacity across the rim permit him to be a constant contributor with out the ball in his fingers.
This season, he is averaging 9.4 factors, 5.6 rebounds, 1.6 blocks and 1.0 steals in 18.5 minutes per recreation. Williams has additionally thrived within the restricted space, connecting on 73.8 p.c of his field-goal makes an attempt.
Portland Path Blazers @trailblazers
Rob getting our 17-0 run began 👀 pic.twitter.com/5Qcq0shUwT
Whereas he is proven that he will be an imposing defensive middle, accidents have prevented him from staying on the ground for extended intervals of time all through his profession. Since he was chosen by the Boston Celtics with a first-round decide within the 2018 NBA draft, he is remodeled 60 appearances in a single season simply as soon as.
Williams was restricted to simply six video games throughout his 2023-24 marketing campaign earlier than present process season-ending knee surgery, and his 2024-25 debut was delayed till Nov. 8 on account of a hamstring strain.
He is under contract for yet another season, as he is set to earn $13.3 million for his 2025-26 marketing campaign earlier than coming into free company.
With the presence of Deandre Ayton in addition to shot-blocking rookie Donovan Clingan, it could be troublesome for Williams to carve out a constant position in head coach Chauncey Billups’ rotation if he cannot discover a option to keep wholesome.
The Lakers and several other different groups might come calling for him, however Portland might not try to maneuver him till the deadline attracts a lot nearer.
