The Los Angeles Lakers have yet to make significant roster upgrades during the offseason, leaving fans frustrated. After being eliminated by the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the playoffs last season, the Lakers are bringing back a mostly unchanged roster. The only additions to the team are rookies Dalton Knecht and Bronny James.
With free agency essentially over, the Lakers must now turn their attention to the trade market if they hope to improve their squad. One name that has recently appeared on the trade block is Robert Williams III of the Portland Trail Blazers. The 26-year-old center is an elite defender. If the Lakers are serious about making a deep playoff run, they should give strong consideration to acquiring Robert Williams III. He is a high-impact player on the defensive end and could be the perfect trade target to bolster their roster.
Lakers Have Just Been Handed Big Bruising Center Lifeline
Robert Williams is a potential trade candidate, per @WindhorstESPN
“A guy to watch who is very tradable is
‘The Time Lord,’ one of the great nicknames in the whole NBA, Robert Williams. Coming back off injury, obviously, he’s a guy who’s had repeated injury problems, but he… pic.twitter.com/dnUqdxw55z— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 9, 2024
The Lakers possess two tradable first-round picks and a few valuable players, such as D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and Jarred Vanderbilt, who could be used as part of trade packages. This gives them options as they seek to strengthen their lineup.
Why Robert Williams III Is a Fit for the Lakers
Although Robert Williams has faced injury setbacks, including a meniscus tear in March 2022 that limited his appearances over the last two seasons, his talent is undeniable. He played only 41 games in the past two years, but at his peak, he is one of the best defensive players in the NBA. Known for his versatility, Williams can switch onto perimeter players and guard multiple positions, while also providing elite shot-blocking and rim protection. Despite being undersized at 6-foot-9 for a center, he makes up for it with his timing and athleticism.
Offensively, Williams is not a primary scoring option, but he is an efficient finisher around the rim. He excels as a lob threat and possesses solid passing abilities for a big man, which helps him compensate for his lack of shooting range. Given his strengths, Robert Williams III can fill a key role for a team like the Lakers, which relies heavily on defense and interior scoring.
Williams has two years left on his contract, worth around $25 million. Given his injury history, his trade value is lower than it would be under normal circumstances. However, for the Lakers, this presents an opportunity. They may be able to acquire him without giving up too many valuable assets. If Williams can stay healthy, his contract becomes a bargain.
Robert Williams’ Impact on the Boston Celtics
During his time with the Boston Celtics, Robert Williams emerged as one of the league’s premier defenders. His impact on the team’s defense was immense, particularly in the 2021-2022 season, when he played a key role in helping the Celtics reach the NBA Finals. Williams’ ability to guard multiple positions, protect the rim, and provide weak-side shot-blocking made Boston one of the best defensive teams in the NBA.
In addition to his defensive prowess, Williams was an effective offensive piece for the Celtics. His ability to finish around the rim and act as a lob target for the team’s playmakers added an important dimension to Boston’s offense. The Celtics could often rely on Williams to make plays out of the pick-and-roll, thanks to his excellent footwork and hands.
However, injuries began to limit his availability. As a result, Boston’s defensive schemes had to adjust, but when healthy, Williams remained one of their most impactful players on both ends of the floor.
Potential Pairing with Anthony Davis
If the Lakers were to acquire Robert Williams III, he would form a formidable frontcourt duo with Anthony Davis. Both players excel in protecting the rim and playing elite defense. The combination of Williams and Davis would create one of the most intimidating defensive tandems in the league. Their ability to switch onto smaller players, block shots, and control the paint could give the Lakers an advantage over many of their Western Conference rivals.
Davis, known for his defensive versatility and shot-blocking, would benefit from playing alongside Williams. This pairing would allow Davis to focus more on his offensive game while Williams anchors the defense. Furthermore, the two would complement each other well on offense, with Davis taking on more scoring responsibilities and Williams acting as the roll man in pick-and-roll situations.
Adding a player like Williams could also take some of the burden off of Davis, who has dealt with his own injury history. Having a second elite defender on the team would allow the Lakers to maintain a high level of defense even when Davis is not on the court.
The Last Word
The Lakers are in a position where they need to make moves to maximize the remaining years of LeBron James‘ career. Trading for Robert Williams could be the answer to their roster concerns. While his injury history is a concern, his talent and defensive ability are undeniable. If healthy, he could provide the Lakers with the elite defensive presence they need to compete for a championship. With two years left on a relatively affordable contract, Williams could be the perfect trade target for a team looking to improve before the new season begins.
