**BREAKING: The Los Angeles Lakers Were Reportedly on the Verge of Acquiring Robert Williams III**
The NBA offseason is always ripe with rumors, surprises, and near-misses that leave fans wondering what could have been. In a stunning development, sources close to the situation have revealed that the Los Angeles Lakers were *this close* to pulling off a major trade for Boston Celtics’ defensive anchor Robert Williams III before talks ultimately fell apart. The deal, which would have sent shockwaves through the league, could have dramatically reshaped the Lakers’ frontcourt and bolstered their championship aspirations.
### **The Trade That Almost Was**
According to insider reports, the Lakers and Celtics engaged in serious discussions that would have sent Williams III to Los Angeles in exchange for a package centered around Austin Reaves and future draft compensation. The framework of the deal was reportedly in place, with both sides weighing the pros and cons before Boston ultimately backed out, preferring to keep their elite rim protector rather than strengthen a historic rival.
Williams, a 6’9” center with elite shot-blocking ability, explosive athleticism, and defensive versatility, would have been a perfect fit alongside Anthony Davis in the Lakers’ frontcourt. His ability to switch onto perimeter players, protect the rim, and finish above the rim in pick-and-roll situations would have given Los Angeles one of the most formidable defensive duos in the league.
### **Why the Lakers Wanted Williams**
The Lakers’ interest in Williams makes perfect sense when examining their roster construction. While Davis is one of the best defenders in the NBA, the team has lacked a true, long-term solution at center who can ease his workload. Williams, when healthy, is one of the most impactful defensive bigs in the league—a player who can single-handedly alter opposing offenses with his shot-blocking and mobility.
Last season, despite battling injuries, Williams averaged 8.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game in just 23 minutes per contest. His per-36-minute numbers (12.5 points, 13.0 rebounds, 2.2 blocks) illustrate his elite production when on the floor. Pairing him with Davis would have allowed the Lakers to deploy a switch-everything defense capable of stifling even the most potent offenses.
Additionally, Williams’ athleticism would have been a major upgrade in transition and as a lob threat for LeBron James. His ability to finish above the rim would have given the Lakers’ offense an extra dimension, particularly in half-court sets where spacing can sometimes be an issue.
### **Why the Celtics Walked Away**
For Boston, trading Williams to the Lakers—a team they’ve battled in countless historic matchups—was always going to be a tough sell. The Celtics already have one of the best defenses in the league, and Williams is a key part of that identity. While Reaves is a valuable young player with playoff experience, Boston’s front office likely feared the backlash of strengthening a conference rival, especially one as high-profile as the Lakers.
There’s also the fact that Williams, despite his injury history, is still just 26 years old and on a reasonable contract (owed approximately $12.4 million per year through 2025-26). His value as a defensive anchor is hard to replace, and Boston may have decided that keeping him was more beneficial than any potential return.
### **The Fallout for the Lakers**
With the deal collapsing, the Lakers must now pivot to other options to solidify their frontcourt. While they still have Jaxson Hayes and rookie Colin Castleton as backup bigs, neither possesses the two-way upside of Williams. This near-miss could push Los Angeles to explore other trade targets before the deadline, with names like Andre Drummond, Clint Capela, or even a reunion with JaVale McGee potentially in play.
Alternatively, the Lakers could choose to stand pat and rely on Davis to play heavy minutes at center, a strategy that has worked in the past but comes with durability concerns. If they want to compete with the likes of Denver, Phoenix, and Golden State, they may need to revisit the trade market sooner rather than later.
### **What This Means for Robert Williams**
For Williams, this near-trade could serve as a wake-up call. While he remains a Celtic for now, the fact that Boston entertained moving him suggests that he may not be as untouchable as once believed. If the Celtics struggle early in the season, his name could resurface in trade talks, with teams like Dallas, Oklahoma City, or even Miami potentially showing interest.
Health will be the biggest factor in his future. When available, Williams is a game-changer, but he has played just 60+ games once in his five-year career. If he can stay on the court, he’ll remain one of the most coveted big men in the league.
### **Final Thoughts**
While the Lakers-Celtics blockbuster never materialized, the mere fact that it was discussed speaks volumes about Los Angeles’ aggressive approach to roster building. Rob Pelinka and the front office are clearly looking to make bold moves to maximize the remaining years of LeBron James’ career.
For now, Williams remains in Boston, and the Lakers will have to explore other avenues to improve their roster. But in the ever-unpredictable NBA, don’t be surprised if his name resurfaces in trade rumors as the season progresses. One thing is certain: if the Lakers had landed him, they would have instantly become a much scarier team in the West.
As for Celtics fans, they can breathe a sigh of relief—for now. But in the NBA, no player is ever truly untouchable.
