The Portland Trail Blazers are likely receiving trade inquiries for some of their veteran players, including center Robert Williams III. Williams appeared in just six games this season for the Blazers after dislocating his patellar tendon, which required surgery and sidelined him for the rest of the year.
Williams was traded to the Blazers from the Boston Celtics right before training camp as part of the deal that sent Jrue Holiday to Boston. However, John Hollinger of The Athletic suggests that Williams might return to the East Coast, possibly joining the New York Knicks.
Hollinger notes that Robert Williams III fits the Knicks’ needs, but they may want to see if he can stay healthy for an extended period before making a move. A healthy Williams would be an ideal addition to the Knicks’ lineup, especially after losing Isaiah Hartenstein in free agency, which left a void at the center position. Although Mitchell Robinson is still with the team, his recent injury history raises concerns, and the Knicks lack other proven big men on the roster.
Given Williams’ role as a starter for the Celtics during their NBA Finals run two years ago, the Knicks might consider pursuing him. However, they would need assurance that he can return to that level of play for the upcoming season and beyond.
