At one point in NBA history, having two big men would never been seen as a problem. Neither can shoot? That’s fine. Put them both on different sides of the low block and dump them into whichever is on the weak side. That was an NBA offense.

It isn’t anymore. In today’s game, starting two big men is a challenge. That said, it seems like one that the Portland Trail Blazers are willing to take on. This team has acquired Deandre Ayton and Robert Williams III this summer. By all accounts, they intend on playing them together.

We’ll see about that. Both Ayton and Williams III have been non-shooters throughout their careers. We suspect the Blazers will eventually want to put better spacing around rookie point guard Scoot Henderson. Could they do so by sending Williams III to the New Orleans Pelicans?

The Trade Proposal

Portland Trail Blazers Receive: G Kira Lewis Jr., G Jordan Hawkins, E.J. Liddell, 2024 Second-Round Pick (BOS via NOP), 2030 Second-Round Pick (NOP)

New Orleans Pelicans Receive: C Robert Williams III

Of course, time will tell whether the Blazers can pair the two big men. Williams III’s body may not allow it. As talented as he is, Williams III is among the most injury-prone players in the NBA.

Blazers fans shouldn’t cry to supporters of the Pelicans. They know a thing or two about injury-prone players. They’ve been relying on Zion Williamson for several years. He’s one of the few players in the league who’s more injury-prone than Williams III. So far, Williamson has played roughly a season’s worth of basketball across four years.

NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Robert Williams III, Portland Trail Blazers & New Orleans Pelicans Updates

Are the Pelicans growing tired of his failing body? They must be. At the same time, giving up on Williamson wouldn’t be easy. When healthy, he’s been an MVP-caliber player. Should the Pelicans risk pairing him with Williams III?

Why The New Orleans Pelicans Do The Deal

Well, it’s reported that the Pelicans would like a more defensive-minded big man. Jonas Valanciunas is a talented offensive player, but he’s got limited lateral mobility. He’s not much of a rim protector, and he can’t defend in space.;

By contrast, Williams III is among the most agile big men in the NBA. He’s an elite rim protector who can guard across positions as well. This seems like exactly the type of big man that the Pelicans covet. If only he could stay healthy, right?

NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Robert Williams III, Portland Trail Blazers & New Orleans Pelicans Updates

Sure. On the other hand, it’s Williams III’s injury history that’s depreciating his trade value. If he could stray healthy, he might go for multiple firsts. The Pelicans are capitalizing on a buy-low opportunity here. If it works out, it should make them a much better team next season. Should the Blazers sell low on Williams III?

Why The Portland Trail Blazers Do The Deal

Portland shouldn’t rush into this deal. They should see how they look leading up to the deadline. For what it’s worth, Ayton and Williams III could be a great duo on the defensive end. Who knows if one will develop a surprise jump shot this season? This pair could be viable.

Let’s assume that neither does. In that event, the Blazers will likely have to move one or the other. With that in mind, Ayton is on a bigger contract. He was also central to the Blazers’ return for Damian Lillard. In all likelihood, he’s part of the future in Portland. Williams III seems like a more likely trade candidate.

NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Robert Williams III, Portland Trail Blazers & New Orleans Pelicans Updates

Some will suggest that the Blazers should seek a different package. This deal has them bringing back two guards, which are already stacked in the backcourt. That’s fine. This is about getting as much value as possible for the oft-injured Williams III. If he can’t play with Ayton, that’s something Portland will have to do.

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