The Los Angeles Lakers’ frontcourt situation is better than most at this stage of the season.
Deandre Ayton has played well alongside Luka Doncic during his first campaign in Los Angeles, providing Doncic with an athletic, coordinated lob threat and protecting the rim effectively.
Ayton is averaging 15.3 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game, shooting 70.6% from the field in 21 contests.
However, the Lakers could benefit from adding a quality backup center for Ayton on the trade market.
Heavy’s Keith Watkins suggests Los Angeles should reunite Ayton with his 6-foot-9 former Portland Trail Blazers teammate.
“Williams fits the identity the Lakers lean on. He protects the rim, plays above the basket, and covers ground in a way most centers cannot,” Watkins wrote Sunday.
“His timing as a shot blocker remains elite. His mobility allows him to survive switches. And his vertical threat gives any guard a clean lob target in the half-court.”
“He also gives the Lakers something they do not currently have behind Ayton. A second big with real defensive presence. Someone who can keep the paint secure when the starters rest. Someone who changes possessions through energy and anticipation.”
Williams, who played alongside Ayton in Portland for less than 3 seasons, has been experiencing the same issue that plagued Anthony Davis during his 4.5-year stint with the Lakers: difficulty avoiding the injury bug.
From knee injuries to ankle setbacks, the 28-year-old former Boston Celtics fan favorite has unfortunately spent ample time on the bench since joining the NBA in 2018.
That said, Williams can cause problems for opponents on both ends when healthy, as he can finish above the rim in pick-and-roll situations and alter/block shots around the rim with force.
The Texas A&M product is averaging 5.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game this season with the Trail Blazers while shooting 66.7% from the field in 15 outings.
Williams would undoubtedly be among the cheaper frontcourt trade assets on the market this season.
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