The Los Angeles Lakers may finally have an opening to strengthen their frontcourt after a new report revealed the Portland Trail Blazers are more willing to move former All-Defensive center Robert Williams III.
According to NBA insider Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, Portland is “forecasted to be more willing to move Robert Williams III this season”, a notable shift from last year when the Blazers set a steep asking price for the oft-injured big man. The updated stance comes as Williams shows improved availability, playing 11 games already this season, compared to just 20 total a year ago.
Robert Williams Showing Signs of a Comeback
Getty Robert Williams III of the Portland Trail Blazers dunks against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Williams’ early production has reminded teams why he once ranked among the NBA’s most impactful defensive centers. He is averaging 4.8 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.1 blocks in just 13.1 minutes off the bench, flashing the same explosiveness that made him an All-Defensive Second Team selection in 2022.
Despite sitting out two of Portland’s last four games, Williams has been highly effective when active. Over his last three appearances, he has totaled 16 points, 16 rebounds, seven blocks, two assists and a steal in just 37 minutes. His latest performance included eight points, five rebounds, four blocks and a steal during Monday’s victory over the Milwaukee Bucks, who were without Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Williams rarely needs touches to impact winning — a trait that fits well with a Lakers roster built around high-usage stars Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves and LeBron James. With Deandre Ayton currently sidelined, Williams could provide essential rim protection and rebounding as a reserve.
Lakers Have History With Williams—but Not the Assets
The Lakers have expressed interest in Williams during each of the past two trade cycles, but Portland previously declined to negotiate unless the offer included premium assets. With the Trail Blazers now reportedly softening their stance, Williams’ value could reset to a more realistic level.
Still, the Lakers’ asset cupboard remains extremely limited. They possess only one tradeable first-round pick (2031 or 2032) and one second-round pick in the next seven years, though they might also offer first-round pick swaps. Even then, Williams is unlikely to cost such a high price, meaning a smaller deal could emerge if Portland seeks flexibility rather than a blockbuster haul.
Good News for Deandre Ayton
Getty Deandre Ayton is not expected to miss significant time.
While Williams could help bolster depth, the Lakers received encouraging news about Ayton’s status. Head coach JJ Redick told reporters that Ayton’s MRI returned “clean”, and he expects the Bahamian big man to return later this week after missing Tuesday’s NBA Cup victory over the LA Clippers with a right knee contusion.
“Don’t think it’s going to be a long-term thing,” Redick said, via The Orange County Register. “Hopefully it’s a game-to-game thing, and he’s back at some point by the end of the week.”
Even without Ayton, the Lakers dominated the Clippers in the paint, winning the rebounding battle 38-29 and scoring 62-50 in the lane. Backup center Jaxson Hayes started, while Maxi Kleber and two-way big Drew Timme filled minutes off the bench. Redick praised Kleber’s versatility and fit within the system.
“He’s very valuable because he understands who he is,” Redick said. “The things he’s really good at are complementary to our best players.”
What Comes Next?
With Ayton trending toward a quick return and Portland reportedly open to offers, the Lakers may explore a low-cost addition to reinforce the position. Williams would add elite shot-blocking and defensive versatility, addressing one of the few remaining holes on an otherwise surging roster.
Whether the move happens could come down to one question: How much will Portland really ask this time?
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