The Los Angeles Lakers are still in the playoffs, but their ideal trade target to partner with Luka Doncic has already emerged: Robert Williams III. Williams enjoyed a sneakily impressive postseason run with the Portland Trail Blazers, and as he prepares to hit free agency, the Lakers should be all over him.
Though the Portland Trail Blazers got bounced in just five games by the San Antonio Spurs, Williams’ impact cannot be ignored. For the first time in years, Williams managed to avoid the injury bug (for the most part), and that allowed him to play some big-time minutes for Portland, especially in the postseason.
He would be great in LA.
Robert Williams III would be perfect Luka Doncic partner
When Doncic is at his best, he’s one of the best advantage-creators on the planet. His innate scoring ability forces teams to double him or send help, and his elite passing allows him to dish impressive kick-outs and lobs.
However, in order for him to be able to do that effectively, he needs the right types of players around him. He needs three-point shooters to knock down shots and quality lob threats at the big man position.
Williams could provide the Lakers with the latter, as his incredible athleticism helps him act as one of the more impressive pick-and-roll lob threats in the NBA.
Just imagine Doncic bringing the ball up the court, Williams setting him a screen, and then Doncic throwing a lob high above the rim, just for Williams to go up, get it, and throw it down.
Jaxson Hayes found a rhythm with Doncic this year, but Williams could take that chemistry with Doncic to another level. He’s even more athletic, and when he’s at his best, his timing is some of the best in the league.
Plus, on the defensive end, Williams could help transform the way the Lakers are able to play. Doncic and Austin Reaves aren’t the best defenders, but having a guy like Williams to clean things up behind them would be a huge help.
In his five playoff games this year, Williams played 21.6 minutes per contest. He averaged 9.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.2 blocks while shooting 62.9% from the floor.
He appeared in 59 regular-season games this year, playing 17.1 minutes -- it was the most appearances he’s had since his All-Defensive campaign with the Boston Celtics in 2021-22.
Williams’ skills as a lob threat (combined with his defense) make him an ideal Doncic partner, and a perfect Lakers target this summer.
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