NBA Trade Rumors: Rockets eyeing $48,000,000 Trail Blazers center's reunion with HC Ime Udoka
Ahead of the Feb. 6 NBA trade deadline, the Houston Rockets are reportedly looking to reunite Ime Udoka with former Boston Celtics big man Robert Williams III. According to ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel, Houston is among the teams interested in acquiring the $48 million (per Spotract) big man.
In an article published on Tuesday, Siegel wrote that the Rockets, LA Clippers, LA Lakers and Golden State Warriors have all shown an interest in him.
Given the connection between Williams and Udoka with the Celtics, where Williams posted the best statistical season of his career in 2021-22, the Rockets know what a healthy Williams can contribute.
As Siegel wrote, after Houston's win over Portland on Saturday, the two were seen talking to one another, and according to sources, Williams "would welcome" a reunion with his former coach.
The big question is what teams are willing to give up to acquire the former all-defensive second team member, who has just played 14 games this season.
When healthy, Williams has shown that he can contribute to winning at the highest level. However, in addition to his limited playing time this campaign, Williams played just six games last season and 35 games the year before.
Latest trade reports surrounding Robert Williams III ahead of trade deadline as Rockets emerge as contenders
Since November, Robert Williams III has been mentioned in reports as a potential trade target for the LA Lakers. With teams such as the Rockets, Clippers and Warriors reportedly also interested in him, it remains to be seen what they'll offer for the eighth-year big man.
According to HoopsHype's Michael Scotto, Portland's asking price isn't far off from the Wizards' price tag on Jonas Valanciunas. Both teams are reportedly looking for several second-round picks.
It shouldn't come as much of a surprise that several teams are looking to dish out a package of second-rounders for a player with as much upside as Williams has.
The Houston Rockets have a trove of second-round picks for the 2026 draft. In addition to their second-round pick, they have OKC's, Dallas' or Philadelphia's.
However, things get dicey after 2027 as Houston has no second-round picks until 2031.
Only time will tell if Houston can meet Portland's asking price.