One week before their preseason opener against the Los Angeles Clippers, the Portland Trail Blazers are expected to be without one of their big men. In a social media post on their official X account, the Trail Blazers announced that Robert Williams has suffered a Grade 1 hamstring strain. Furthermore, they announced he is expected to miss two weeks. If this holds true, he will likely miss the entire preseason, putting his availability to start the regular season at risk as well.
INJURY UPDATE: Robert Williams III experienced a grade 1 left hamstring strain during training camp this week.
He is expected to miss two weeks, and his status will be updated as appropriate.
— Portland Trail Blazers (@trailblazers) October 4, 2024
The Trail Blazers acquired Williams last year from the Boston Celtics. His first year with the team did not go too well, however. The Louisiana native appeared in just six games for the team before suffering a season-ending knee injury. On the year, Williams averaged 6.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.2 steals, and 1.2 blocks.
If Williams misses any time in the regular season, the Trail Blazers will rely more heavily on Jerami Grant and Deandre Ayton in the frontcourt. Additionally, rookie Donovan Clingan will now have a bigger opportunity as well.
Portland Trail Blazers Big Man Sidelined With Injury
Robert Williams Remains a Trade Candidate for Portland
Last month, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst named Williams as a potential trade candidate. This is due to his contract and Portland potentially being “willing to part with him.”
“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 makes $13 million. They may be willing to part with him, and he could go to a contender and be a significant piece if he is healthy.”
When healthy, Williams is a fantastic player. This was most evident during the Celtics’ 2021-22 season. In large part due to Williams’ presence, especially on defense, the Celtics made it all the way to the NBA Finals. Injuries have derailed his career so far, holding him back from reaching his peak. However, on the court, Williams is somebody who can help every contender in the league.
The Last Word On Robert Williams
Fortunately for Williams and the Trail Blazers, this does not seem like a major injury. However, given his history, there is cause for concern. It is safe to assume Portland will play it safe as Williams recovers. Regardless, the Trail Blazers are unlikely to make any noise this year anyway. Rushing Williams back is a bad idea for both sides. However, when he does come back, it will be exciting to see what he can do in a Trail Blazers uniform.
