Jrue Holiday out for Christmas game against 76ers

If it’s not Valanciunas, Portland’s Robert Williams III stands as perhaps the most coveted center on this season’s trade market. He is another player on the Lakers’ wish list of bigs and known for his defensive presence. And because Williams is only in Year 3 of a four-year, $48 million deal, there has been ongoing interest for Portland to navigate despite Williams’ significant injury history. Sources say the Blazers aren’t eager to part ways with Williams just yet, though. Portland has been optimistic about Williams’ pick-and-roll partnership with the Blazers’ young guards since team officials, sources say, made acquiring Williams a priority as part of the return package for Jrue Holiday before the start of last season. If any moves are made in Portland’s crowded frontcourt — which also houses Deandre Ayton, Duop Reath and recent No. 7 overall pick Donovan Clingan – not expected to come until much closer to the February 6 deadline. -via marcstein.substack.com / 19 December 2024