It’s been a while since Jayson Tatum and Robert Williams were teammates. The last time they shared a court as such, Boston was expelled from the Eastern Conference finals by the Miami Heat. Just a few months later, Williams was shipped out in the deal that brought Jrue Holiday to the Celtics, who eventually helped them win a title.
Alongside Malcolm Brogdon, Williams joined the Portland Trail Blazers. Unfortunately, after just six games with the team, Williams underwent season-ending surgery. But now, he’s back and ready to enter his second season with Portland. The Blazers are still rebuilding, but that should give him plenty of time to get ramped up.
And Tatum couldn’t be more thrilled.
It's finally time for Time Lord again
After quotes from Blazers Media Day revealed that Williams is progressing well, Tatum shared a supportive message on Twitter.
“Excited to see my brotha back out there🤞🏽,” Tatum wrote.
Boston’s 2021-22 season was the last time Williams played basketball while fully healthy. He played 35 games during the 2022-23 season, but his minutes were far more restrictive.
Excited to see my brotha back out there 🤞🏽 https://t.co/WdBkyVtY2y
— Jayson Tatum (@jaytatum0) October 1, 2024
When he was on the court full-time, Williams was a legitimate Defensive Player of the Year candidate. That’s who Portland could have waiting in the wings, and he’s ready to show off his skills again.
"I'm in a great space right now,” Williams said at Media Day. “It's been a long seven months. A long fight back. I'm ready to get back on the court, man. You see me smiling. There was a point when I couldn't walk."
All that said, every indication is pointing toward Williams being good to go heading into next season. Obviously, he’s run into unfortunate injuries before, so the Blazers will have to be cautious, but he could be a huge impact player for them.
Robert Williams III: "I'm in a great space right now. It's been a long seven months. A long fight back. I'm ready to get back on the court, man. You see me smiling. There was a point when I couldn't walk." Says he's good to go.
— Sean Highkin (@highkin) September 30, 2024
They just drafted Donovan Clingan, and Deandre Ayton is still in town, so there’s a bit of a clog at the center spot. But Williams brings a look that neither of those guys does: Elite athleticism and defensive IQ.
He will be an amazing tool for Scoot Henderson to utilize, especially as a vertical spacer. The pick-and-roll game should look very appetizing, with Williams soaring to the rim and catching lobs. He should also be able to play alongside Clingan or Ayton as a weak-side help defender.
Above all, Williams and the Blazers simply need to prioritize his health, as when he’s on the court, he’s a joy to watch. And clearly, Tatum is very excited to enjoy that viewing experience again.