Ime Udoka reportedly eyeing reunion with oft-injured big man

Portland Trail Blazers center Robert Williams.

Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports has reported that the Houston Rockets are interested in acquiring Robert Williams from the Portland Trail Blazers. Williams spent one season playing under Ime Udoka during their time together on the Boston Celtics.

The Louisiana native played a key role in Udoka’s Celtics team making the NBA Finals. Nevertheless, Houston will need to weigh the risks of acquiring Williams. There’s no doubt he’s one of the best defensive big men in the NBA. His exceptional leaping ability makes him a fantastic rim protector. Yet his inability to stay healthy is a risk for any potentially interested team.

Williams underwent knee surgery earlier this season. He had suffered an injury when playing against the Memphis Grizzlies on Nov. 4. Due to the complexity of the operation and the recovery time, Williams has been ruled out for the season.

Udoka and the Rockets front office are likely viewing a potential trade for Williams as a move for the future. He has experience of playing in a double-big lineup. He is also well-versed in coming off the bench. It’s also fair to assume Williams will spend the majority of his career on a minutes restriction.

Since entering the NBA in 2018, Williams has participated in 215 regular-season games. He’s averaging 6.8 points, 6.3 rebounds and 0.8 assists, shooting 65.4% from the field. His verticality would provide the Rockets with a level of vertical spacing the franchise hasn’t seen since Clint Capela left in 2020.

Furthermore, Williams is an underrated passer and could help facilitate the offense when operating at the top of the perimeter. Udoka is a defensive-minded coach. Adding one of the best rim protectors in the NBA via a discounted trade package makes sense for his playing style.

Whether the Rockets are willing to roll the dice on Williams’ health will likely be the only sticking point.

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