Robert Williams III is nearing his season debut after battling a knee issue to start the year. Williams is listed as questionable on the Blazers injury report ahead of their game against the Nuggets on Friday.
Williams has slowly ramped up his activity ahead of his return. The Blazers assigned him to their G League affiliate earlier this week as part of return to play conditioning. Williams needed a left knee procedure this past March, which is why he has yet to see the court this season.
The former Celtics big man will have to work his way into Portland’s rotation. The Blazers have leaned on Donovan Clingan as their starter thus far, with Duop Reath and first-round pick Yang Hansen coming off the bench. It’s unclear how Williams fits in the front court, but getting him back on the court is still a positive sign.
Williams has been limited to just 26 played over the past two seasons for Portland. He’s been injury prone throughout his career, which has limited the big man from hitting his ceiling. The Celtics included Williams in the first Jrue Holiday trade back before the 2023-24 season.
Williams is entering the final year of his contract, so he has plenty of incentive to get healthy and show he can still produce on the court. He’s been in trade rumors the past couple seasons for center-needy teams, though the Blazers have elected to keep the big man. If Williams can string together healthy games and show he’s still a contributor, there’s a chance he could be moved later this season.
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