3 Bold Trade Scenarios That Could Bring Robert Williams III to the Lakers…Read More…
As the Los Angeles Lakers enter a pivotal offseason seeking to retool their roster for another championship run, one name is quietly gaining traction in trade conversations—Robert Williams III. Known for his elite rim protection, high-flying athleticism, and rebounding tenacity, Williams could be the missing piece in the Lakers’ defensive puzzle. With the Portland Trail Blazers continuing their rebuild around youth and draft assets, a trade involving the oft-injured but impactful big man may be more realistic than ever.
According to league insiders, the Lakers are exploring three distinct trade pathways to potentially land Williams, each with unique implications for both franchises. Let’s break down the scenarios fueling this growing buzz in L.A.
Scenario 1: The Defensive Overhaul Package
Lakers Receive:
- Robert Williams III
- Matisse Thybulle
Blazers Receive:
- Jarred Vanderbilt
- Gabe Vincent
- 2029 First-Round Pick (Top-10 Protected)
In this defensive-oriented swap, the Lakers part ways with two valuable role players in Vanderbilt and Vincent, along with a protected first-round pick. The return? A potent defensive combo in Robert Williams III and Matisse Thybulle.
This move would give the Lakers a starting-caliber rim protector who can anchor the defense behind Anthony Davis, allowing the latter to shift back to his preferred position at power forward more frequently. Thybulle, a two-time All-Defensive Team member, would bring tenacity on the perimeter—something the Lakers sorely missed in the playoffs.
For the Blazers, Vanderbilt provides energy and switchability that fits their youth movement, while Vincent adds veteran leadership in the backcourt. A future first-rounder helps solidify their rebuild around Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe.
Scenario 2: The Salary Shuffle with Upside
Lakers Receive:
- Robert Williams III
Blazers Receive:
- Rui Hachimura
- Jalen Hood-Schifino
- 2027 Second-Round Pick
This package leans more toward financial flexibility and upside for Portland. Hachimura’s scoring and physicality make him a strong fit next to Deandre Ayton or Jerami Grant, while Jalen Hood-Schifino remains an intriguing developmental guard.
From the Lakers’ perspective, this trade is a gamble on Williams’ health. He has played in fewer than 40 games in each of the past two seasons, but when healthy, his impact is undeniable. At just 27, Williams could thrive in a structured Lakers defense under head coach JJ Redick, forming a formidable frontcourt duo with Davis.
With Austin Reaves, LeBron James, and D’Angelo Russell handling much of the playmaking, the Lakers can afford to give up a young guard like Hood-Schifino for immediate help in the paint.
Scenario 3: The Blockbuster Depth Move
Lakers Receive:
- Robert Williams III
- Malcolm Brogdon
Blazers Receive:
- D’Angelo Russell
- Max Christie
- 2025 First-Round Pick (Unprotected)
This is the most aggressive route for L.A., but also the most intriguing. The Lakers land both a defensive anchor in Williams and a steady veteran guard in Brogdon, who could lead the second unit or even close games alongside Reaves.
Giving up D’Angelo Russell, who has been an inconsistent playoff performer, and promising young guard Max Christie would hurt. But Brogdon’s championship pedigree and two-way reliability may provide more postseason value. The inclusion of an unprotected first-round pick signals the Lakers’ win-now urgency in what could be LeBron’s final season.
For Portland, Russell becomes a valuable trade chip or a temporary starting guard to mentor Henderson. Christie adds youth and shooting upside, while the unprotected pick could turn into a premium asset in the near future.
Why Robert Williams III Makes Sense for the Lakers
While Williams has battled injuries over the past two seasons, his defensive rating when healthy remains among the NBA’s elite. He brings vertical spacing, shot-blocking, and hustle—all traits the Lakers lacked in key playoff moments. His ability to guard the pick-and-roll, switch on smaller players, and provide help defense would alleviate some of the burden on Anthony Davis, potentially preserving AD’s health for a deeper postseason run.
His contract—$12.4 million for 2025-26 with a non-guaranteed 2026-27—offers cost control and cap flexibility, something the Lakers must consider with LeBron aging and a possible extension looming.
Final Thoughts
Rob Pelinka and the Lakers’ front office are no strangers to bold moves. Bringing in Robert Williams III is not without risk, but the potential upside may outweigh the gamble. In a Western Conference dominated by offensive firepower—think Nikola Jokić, Luka Dončić, and Devin Booker—adding a mobile, high-IQ defender could tip the scales in L.A.’s favor.
Whether it’s a minor reshuffle or a major swing, one thing is clear: the Lakers are serious about upgrading their defense, and Robert Williams III may soon find himself trading Rip City red for Lakers gold.
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