The Los Angeles Lakers are in desperate need of a new center as the NBA trade deadline approaches. With the departure of Anthony Davis in a blockbuster trade for Luka Dončić, the Lakers find themselves with a significant void in the center position. It is crucial for them to acquire a big man to fill this gap, but questions remain as to who they will target and how much they are willing to spend.
One player that has been linked to the Lakers is Robert Williams III from the Portland Trail Blazers. Williams could provide immediate help to the Lakers and also contribute to their long-term plans. However, the price tag for Williams has been revealed, and it may give the Lakers pause.
According to The Athletic’s Jovan Buha, the Trail Blazers are seeking an unprotected first-round pick in exchange for Williams. While the Lakers do possess an unprotected first-round pick in 2031, it is unlikely that they would be willing to part with such a valuable asset for a player like Williams.
One factor that complicates the potential deal is Williams’ injury history. Although he is a talented player, Williams has a long list of injuries that have limited his availability on the court. Out of 131 games played in Portland, Williams has only participated in 23, which amounts to just 17 percent. In the NBA, availability is often considered a player’s best ability, and the risk of acquiring an injury-prone player like Williams must be taken into account.
Despite his injury concerns, Williams has shown promise when healthy. His best season came in 2021-22 with the Boston Celtics, where he played in 61 games and averaged career-highs in points (10.0) and blocks (2.2). He even received votes for Defensive Player of the Year and was named to the All-Defensive Second Team.
Williams’ potential as a strong and physical big man has caught the attention of many teams, including the Lakers. At 27 years old, he could be a valuable asset for any team looking to bolster their frontcourt and improve their defensive presence.
However, the Lakers must carefully weigh the potential upside of acquiring Williams against the risks associated with his injury history. While he could provide immediate help, there is no guarantee that he will be able to stay healthy and consistently contribute on the court.
As the NBA trade deadline approaches, the Lakers will need to make a decision on whether pursuing Williams is worth the potential cost and risk. Acquiring a new center is crucial for their championship aspirations, but they must carefully consider all factors before making a final move.
In conclusion, the Lakers are targeting Robert Williams III from the Trail Blazers to fill their center position. However, the high price tag of an unprotected first-round pick and Williams’ injury history may complicate the deal. The Lakers must carefully evaluate the potential benefits and risks before making a final decision. As the trade deadline looms, all eyes will be on the Lakers to see how they address their pressing need for a big man.
