If it’s not Valanciunas, Portland’s Robert Williams III stands as maybe essentially the most coveted heart on this season’s commerce market. He’s one other participant on the Lakers’ wishlist of bigs and famend for his defensive presence. And since Williams is just in 12 months 3 of a four-year, $48 million deal, there’s been ongoing inbound curiosity for Portland to navigate regardless of Williams’ appreciable damage historical past. Sources say that the Blazers, however, aren’t eager to part ways with Williams just yet. Portland has been bullish on Williams’ pick-and-roll partnership with the Blazers’ young guards since team officials, sources say, made acquiring Williams a priority as part of the return package for Jrue Holiday before the start of last season. If there’s any transfer coming in Portland’s crowded frontcourt — which additionally homes Deandre Ayton, Duop Reath, and up to date No. 7 general choose Donovan Clingan — it isn’t anticipated to come back till a lot nearer to the Feb. 6 deadline. -via marcstein.substack.com / December 19, 2024
