Perfect Lakers Trade Target Now Reportedly Available

The Los Angeles Lakers haven't been able to make any upgrades to the roster in the offseason, much to the frustration of their fans. They are bringing the same roster that lost to the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the playoffs last season, except with the additions of rookies Dalton Knecht and Bronny James.

Now that free agency is basically over, the Lakers have to turn their attention to the trade market if they want to improve the roster. Los Angeles has two first-round picks they can trade, and players like D'Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and Jarred Vanderbilt that they can use as matching salaries.

Fortunately for the Lakers, there are ideal targets hitting the trade block on a regular basis. The latest name that is reportedly available via trade is Robert Williams III of the Portland Trail Blazers. The defensive big man is an intriguing player that the Lakers should seriously consider.

NBA Rumors: Robert Williams Potential Trade Candidate

Williams obviously comes with serious injury concerns. He only played in 41 games over the last two seasons. Since he tore his meniscus in March 2022 and returned quickly to be available for the 2022 Playoffs, he hasn't looked the same.

In his prime, the 26-year-old center is one of the best defenders in the league. He can switch out on the perimeter and guard multiple positions while providing elite defensive playmaking. He is one of the best rim protectors in the league despite being undersized at 6-foot-9.

Offensively, he is a good finisher and lob threat around the basket. He has a solid passing ability that makes up for his lack of shooting.

Williams has two more years on his contract that pays him a little over $25 million in total. If he is healthy and available, that is a bargain deal. Due to his injury risk, he will likely be easily acquirable for the Lakers without them having to give up significant assets.

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