NBA trade rumors: Blazers ‘not eager’ to move Robert Williams III despite interest | News, Scores, Highlights, Stats and Rumors

The Portland Trail Blazers do not appear to be actively pursuing a trade involving center Robert Williams III.

According to an NBA insider Jake Fischerthe Trail Blazers “aren’t eager to part ways with Williams just yet” as the team likes his fit alongside young guards Scoot Henderson and Anfernee Simons.

Fischer noted that there is “continued interest” in the 27-year-old, as he is currently on the Los Angeles Lakers’ “wish list” of centers to target ahead of the Feb. 6 trade deadline.

It’s easy to see why teams with playoff aspirations would be interested in Williams, as his defensive acumen and athletic finishing ability around the rim allow him to be a consistent contributor without the ball in his hands.

This season, he is averaging 9.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.6 blocks and 1.0 steals in 18.5 minutes per game. Williams also thrived in the restricted area, connecting on 73.8 percent of his field goal attempts.

Although he has demonstrated that he can be an imposing defensive center, injuries have kept him on the field for extended periods throughout his career. Since being selected by the Boston Celtics with a first-round pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, he has made over 60 appearances in a single season, just once.

Williams was limited to just six games during his 2023-24 campaign before ending the season. knee surgeryand its 2024-25 debut was delayed until November 8 due to a hamstring strain.

He is under contract for one more season, as he is set to earn $13.3 million for his 2025-26 campaign before entering free agency.

With the presence of Deandre Ayton as well as rookie Donovan Clingan, it could be difficult for Williams to carve out a consistent role in head coach Chauncey Billups’ rotation if he doesn’t find a way to stay healthy .

The Lakers and several other teams could come calling for him, but Portland might not attempt to move him until the deadline gets much closer.