As the 2024-25 NBA season looms, the future of Robert Williams III with the Portland Trail Blazers remains uncertain. Once a key defensive anchor for the Boston Celtics, Williams is now on a team that appears to be entering a full rebuild, leaving his role up in the air.
Several teams are closely monitoring his situation, with the New York Knicks emerging as a notable suitor.
According to ESPN’s NBA insider Brian Windhorst, the Knicks are keeping a close watch on Williams as they look to bolster their frontcourt. Speaking on NBA Today, Windhorst shared, “I would say Robert Williams from Portland is a name to watch. Any team looking for a center is going to monitor him closely this season, and I think the Knicks will be among those teams.”
Knicks’ Need for a Center Heightens Interest in Williams
The Knicks find themselves in need of frontcourt reinforcements after losing Isaiah Hartenstein to the Oklahoma City Thunder during the 2024 offseason. Hartenstein’s departure leaves Mitchell Robinson and Precious Achiuwa as the team’s primary options at center, but both players come with their own set of limitations.
Robinson has been a reliable defensive presence, but his offensive game remains limited. Achiuwa, while versatile, lacks the elite defensive capabilities that Williams brings to the table.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Robert Williams III, Portland Trail Blazers, New York Knicks Updates
Williams, on the other hand, is a proven game-changer on the defensive end. Known for his shot-blocking, rim protection, and ability to guard multiple positions, Williams earned a spot on the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 2022. His presence in the paint could give the Knicks the defensive boost they need to compete in the Eastern Conference.
However, Williams’ career has been marred by injuries. The 26-year-old has struggled to stay healthy throughout his time in the league, missing significant chunks of several seasons due to various ailments, including knee and hip issues.
Despite this, Williams remains an attractive trade target due to his relatively affordable contract. He is entering the third year of a four-year, $54 million deal, with a $13 million annual salary that makes him a feasible option for teams looking to add a high-upside player without breaking the bank.
Portland’s Rebuild May Lead to a Trade
The Trail Blazers’ current rebuilding efforts could also play a significant role in Williams’ future. Portland’s front office has made it clear that they are focused on developing young talent, and Williams may not fit into their long-term plans.
Windhorst speculated that the Trail Blazers might opt to move Williams as they continue to retool their roster. “Honestly, the responsible thing to do for the Blazers is to trade him,” Windhorst said. “The responsible thing is to develop Clingan, who, by the way, could be an ace defensive player, too. He’s got the potential to do that.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Robert Williams III, Portland Trail Blazers, New York Knicks Updates
Clingan, a highly-touted young center out of UConn, has shown promise in his limited appearances and could eventually take over as the team’s defensive anchor.
By trading Williams, the Blazers could acquire valuable assets to aid in their rebuild, while giving Clingan the opportunity to develop without competition for minutes at the center position.
Robert Williams III: A High-Risk, High-Reward Option
While Williams is undoubtedly an impact player when healthy, any team trading for him will be taking a calculated risk. His injury history is a legitimate concern, particularly for teams with championship aspirations. However, his upside is undeniable.
Williams’ elite defensive skills make him a potential difference-maker, especially in high-stakes playoff series. Teams in need of a defensive anchor—such as the Knicks—may be willing to take that risk, especially considering his relatively team-friendly contract.
As Windhorst pointed out, Williams could be the type of player who tips the scales in favor of a contender. “He’s a guy who’s had repeated injury problems, but he makes $13 million, and that’s a very tradable contract. He could go to a contender and be a significant piece,” Windhorst explained. “The guy is potentially a difference-making player defensively in a playoff series.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Robert Williams III, Portland Trail Blazers, New York Knicks Updates
With teams like the Knicks on the lookout for a center who can immediately contribute on the defensive end, Williams stands out as an intriguing trade target. If the Trail Blazers do decide to make him available, there is likely to be no shortage of interest around the league.
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