Robert Williams is finally back on the field to play after missing almost all of last seasonand as expected, he made an impact on the Trail Blazers. The former Celtics big man had his last productive game Sunday against the Hawks, scoring 14 points and eight rebounds on 6-for-6 shooting in 25 minutes.

Williams’ talent is evidentthere is no doubt about it. But the big man’s problem is more about staying healthy, as that has been a struggle throughout his career. After being traded to Portland last season, Williams only played in six games before needing season-ending knee surgery.

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Other teams will keep an eye on Williams as a potential trade piece. On the other hand, the Blazers will also be careful to make sure Williams doesn’t get hurt again. So there’s a balance where Williams can clearly play, but the Blazers also have several centers they can turn to, including Deandre Ayton and first-round pick Donovan Clingan. In four games for the Blazers, Williams is averaging 12.0 points and 5.7 rebounds per game while shooting 78.9 percent from the field.

Williams has already been linked to some trade rumors earlier this season, including to the Lakers as a potential big man option. It will be a high-risk, high-reward move depending on what it costs to bring Williams to the trade market. There’s no denying Williams’ talent – look no further than his game against the Timberwolves recently. Williams had 19 points, nine rebounds, three assists, three blocks and three steals in 25 minutes of action, demonstrating why the Celtics thought so highly of him.

So, Williams can certainly bring a lot of value to any team looking for some depth. However, injuries have slowed the 27-year-old down. Williams played in a career-high 61 games during his 2021-22 season, when he was also named second team All-Defensive as a key part of the Celtics’ defense. But he has only played 41 games in the two full seasons since 2022-24.

Regardless, Celtics fans will likely continue to cheer for their old friend as Williams looks to make his way in the league. He can contribute for any contender, but it will be more about making sure he can stay on the field as well. But it’s also a positive sign for the Blazers, the talented big man appears not to have lost a step in terms of impact.