The Los Angeles Lakers are intensifying efforts to bolster their frontcourt defense by pursuing Robert Williams III in a potential trade, following their recent addition of Deandre Ayton. This strategic move, focused on improving rim protection alongside stars LeBron James and Luka Doncic, positions the Lakers as front-runners in the Robert Williams III Lakers trade discussions.
After securing Ayton through a buyout, the Lakers continue addressing concerns over consistency and depth in their interior defense. Insiders reveal that Los Angeles has entered trade talks with the Portland Trail Blazers, aiming to acquire Williams, who is considered a top candidate to fill the backup center role behind Ayton. The Lakers face competition from strong contenders such as Golden State, Milwaukee, and Boston but currently appear to have the edge in negotiations.
Potential Trade Structure Including Draft Picks
One of the most probable trade proposals involves the Lakers receiving Robert Williams III in exchange for Dalton Knecht, Gabe Vincent, and a 2032 second-round pick sent to Portland. This aligns with Portland’s expected demand for multiple second-round selections when dealing Williams. Including Knecht, a promising rookie with notable scoring and shooting potential, alongside Vincent, a reliable veteran guard, provides Portland with a mix of experience and youth.
Williams’ recent performances underline his impact, averaging 5.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game on 64.1% shooting, despite limited minutes in the 2024-25 season. By acquiring him, the Lakers hope to secure a formidable defensive presence to complement Ayton and solidify their interior defense. For Portland, adding Vincent’s steady contributions and Knecht’s offensive upside, together with future draft flexibility, could help offset the risk associated with Williams’ history of injuries.
A Streamlined Two-Player Swap Option
An alternative trade scenario simplifies the deal by involving only two players: the Lakers acquire Robert Williams III, and the Trail Blazers receive Dalton Knecht and Maxi Kleber. This arrangement avoids draft picks and extra guards, making it more manageable in terms of roster and salary considerations for Los Angeles.
Kleber, known for his veteran leadership and three-point shooting, adds immediate frontcourt depth to Portland’s lineup. Meanwhile, the Lakers, confident in Ayton and Jaxson Hayes’ presence, may view Kleber as a more expendable asset. Knecht, as a young shot-creator developing at a promising pace, provides the Lakers with flexibility to negotiate an upgrade in their frontcourt by acquiring Williams, despite giving up a potential future contributor.
Portland benefits by gaining a stretch big and a youthful talent who could grow into a key role. Considering Williams’ durability concerns, Portland is likely seeking an immediate impact addition rather than relying heavily on long-term potential or draft picks alone.
Trade Proposal the Lakers Are Unlikely to Favor
A third trade possibility involves Portland receiving Dalton Knecht and Jarred Vanderbilt in exchange for Williams. Including Vanderbilt, a versatile forward with strong defensive skills but limited offensive output, creates challenges for the Lakers’ frontcourt balance. Sacrificing two young players with distinct skill sets would strain Los Angeles’ roster depth and developmental prospects.
Vanderbilt’s limited playing time and overlapping role with other Lakers frontcourt players make this deal less appealing. Although losing Knecht is a trade-off the Lakers might accept, parting with Vanderbilt alongside him reduces roster flexibility and future continuity. This scenario is less favored by Los Angeles management but might attract Portland, which values Vanderbilt’s defensive versatility more highly.
Rob Pelinka is expected to prioritize the first two trade options that better balance roster needs and long-term strategy over this more disruptive deal.
Lakers Positioned as Leading Contenders to Acquire Robert Williams III
Los Angeles’ aggressive approach to securing Robert Williams III reflects their urgency to enhance their interior defense and deepen their roster. With Ayton as the primary center, Williams would provide crucial backup minutes, contributing shot-blocking, athleticism, and high-efficiency scoring near the rim.
The Lakers’ pursuit underscores their commitment to championship contention, balancing the risk of Williams’ injury history against the potential rewards of his elite defensive skill set. If successful, this move could shape the team’s defensive identity and provide seamless support for their core stars, LeBron James and Luka Doncic, heading deeper into the season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Robert Williams III hurt?
A. Robert Williams III of the Portland Trail Blazers will miss four to six weeks following a minor knee operation to reduce swelling.
Q. How many surgeries has Robert Williams III had?
A. While with the Celtics, he had two operations on his left knee and played 50 or more games in only two out of five seasons. In November, he tore a ligament in his right knee, leading to the most serious surgery he’s faced and cutting his season short just as it began. “It was pretty tough,” Williams stated.