'Portland Trail Blazers' Robert Williams III Faces Season-Ending Surgery After Knee Injury

'Portland Trail Blazers' Robert Williams III Faces Season-Ending Surgery After Knee Injury 


Robert Williams



Portland Trail Blazers center Robert Williams III is set to undergo season-ending surgery on his right knee, sources revealed to ESPN on Friday. The decision comes after Williams sustained damage to the kneecap and ligaments during last Sunday's game against the Memphis Grizzlies. Sources indicate that the 26-year-old player is expected to make a full recovery by the commencement of the 2024-25 NBA season, with the surgical procedure scheduled for early next week.


Williams, acquired in the trade with the Boston Celtics involving Jrue Holiday in September, had become a focal point of interest for several teams anticipating potential movement before the February trade deadline. The Blazers had strategically incorporated Williams into their lineup alongside Deandre Ayton, obtained from the Phoenix Suns in the Damian Lillard trade.


Known for his prowess as one of the league's premier rim protectors, Williams has showcased outstanding defensive skills, leading the NBA in field goal percentage allowed as the closest defender among those defending 1,000 shots, as reported by Second Spectrum.


This unfortunate injury adds to Williams' recent history of health challenges, including missing the beginning of the 2022-23 season due to offseason surgery on his left knee. Furthermore, in March 2022, he experienced a torn meniscus in his left knee.


Williams achieved a career-high performance during the 2021-22 NBA season, earning recognition as a second-team All-NBA defensive selection while contributing significantly to the Celtics' journey to the NBA Finals. Starting in 61 games, he averaged an impressive 10.0 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game.


The Portland Trail Blazers now face the challenge of readjusting their roster and strategies following the loss of Williams for the remainder of the season.

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