The Los Angeles Lakers are expected to aggressively pursue help at the center position this offseason, and one name beginning to gain serious traction around the league is Portland Trail Blazers big man Robert Williams III.With Luka Doncic now leading the franchise, the Lakers appear focused on finding an athletic rim-running center who can thrive as a lob threat while also protecting the paint defensively. Because lets be real, Deandre Ayton isnt that.Williams has become one of the most talked-about names connected to Los Angeles during NBA offseason discussions in Chicago, ESPNs Bobby Marks recently revealed.The one name that basically picked up the most buzz, a lot of teams in Chicago last week, was Robert Williams. Thats the name, Marks said on ESPN.You have to be cautious with that because of the games and availability, minutes. Thats the one guy who, I dont want to say neutralized Victor (Wembanyama), but he guarded him probably one of the best in the playoffs in the first round. That would be the guy.Hes probably one of the top center unrestricted free agents out there and I think he gives you that shot blocker, rim protector, that guy that can be a lob threat for Luka. Now the question is whats the cost? Is it $12-13 million? I think thats kind of where his range is, but there will be other teams that also see that.When healthy, Williams has consistently shown why teams remain interested in him. Across his five seasons with the Boston Celtics, he developed into one of the leagues better defensive centers while also becoming a highly effective pick-and-roll finisher.His athleticism and timing around the rim made him a major factor during Bostons deep playoff runs.Related Article: Knicks One Win From NBA Finals After Crushing CavaliersThe concern, however, remains durability.Williams has appeared in just 85 games over the last three seasons with Portland and has dealt with multiple knee and lower-body injuries throughout his career. For a player whose game relies heavily on explosiveness and mobility, that medical history will likely determine how aggressive teams are in free agency.READ MORE: Cavs Coach Kenny Atkinson on What Has Impressed Him Most About Knicks
