Robert Williams is rapidly changing into probably the most talked-about facilities in free company, with ESPN’s Bobby Marks saying the previous Boston large man is “the one identify that picked up probably the most buzz” amongst groups in Chicago final week.
Marks stated Williams is the participant he would circle on a free-agent want checklist due to what he can do on each ends. “That might be the man,” Marks stated, by way of HoopsHype, including that Williams offers groups “that shot blocker, that rim protector, that man that may lob risk for Luka Doncic.”
The curiosity comes with a transparent warning label. Williams, 28, is ready to turn into an unrestricted free agent this summer time after his four-year, $48 million deal expires, and availability has been the largest concern all through his profession.
“It’s important to be cautious with that due to his video games availability, the minutes,” Marks stated. Even so, he famous that Williams “guarded [Victor Wembanyama] most likely among the best definitely within the playoffs within the first spherical,” a reminder of how disruptive the 6-foot-9 heart will be when wholesome.
That defensive ceiling explains the excitement. Williams has lengthy been valued as a cell rim protector who can erase errors behind the protection, and his match subsequent to high-level playmakers is clear due to his means to complete as a lob risk.
The market is the following query. Marks estimated the vary at round $12 million to $13 million yearly, whereas pointing to groups resembling Atlanta, Boston and the Clippers as doable suitors with spending room.
Williams spent the 2025-26 season with the Portland Path Blazers and performed 59 regular-season video games, averaging 6.7 factors, 7.0 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in 17.1 minutes per sport. He shot 70.8% from the sphere, displaying how environment friendly he will be across the rim when he’s on the ground.
Portland additionally leaned on him within the playoffs, the place he appeared in 5 video games and averaged 9.6 factors, 7.4 rebounds and 1.2 blocks in 21.6 minutes.
