The Los Angeles Lakers have emerged as the betting favorites to sign former Boston Celtics center Robert Williams III, according to Bovada. The 26-year-old is in the final year of the four-year deal he signed with Boston before the Celtics traded him to the Portland Trail Blazers in 2023.
A report by Athlonsports confirmed that the Lakers are targeting Robert Williams III, even though he is still recovering from a knee injury that required surgery. Despite his current condition, the Lakers remain interested. They struggled defensively last season, and Williams could be the solution they need to strengthen their rim protection and improve their interior presence.
A calculated risk with big upside
Adding Williams would be a gamble, but it could pay dividends. The Celtics selected him with the 27th overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, and he quickly gained a reputation as one of the league’s elite interior defenders. His ability to block shots and guard the paint sets him apart. When healthy, he plays with high energy, covers ground quickly, and alters opponents’ shots at the rim with ease.
The Lakers are the favorites to land Robert Williams III, per @BovadaOfficial
Los Angeles Lakers +185
Golden State Warriors +255
Milwaukee Bucks +375
Boston Celtics +475
Houston Rockets +600
New York Knicks +750
Toronto Raptors +800 pic.twitter.com/3EJnJulaX4— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 25, 2025
This summer, the Lakers have already made several roster changes in an effort to build a competitive team around Luka Doncic. The front office is preparing for a potential LeBron James exit or trade, and every move seems designed to ensure long-term stability and success.
So far, the team has re-signed Jaxson Hayes, brought in Deandre Ayton, acquired Marcus Smart, and signed Jake LaRavia. Adding Robert Williams would further strengthen their defense, giving them depth and versatility in the frontcourt.
Still, this move requires careful consideration. Williams has a history of injuries, and his current contract could impact salary cap flexibility. Moreover, Portland’s asking price may be steep. But even with those risks, betting markets continue to favor the Lakers as the most likely destination for the talented big man. If the deal goes through, it could become a key turning point for the Lakers’ future.
