Portland Trail Blazers fans looking for a quick turnaround with their veteran players may be disappointed by the latest developments. In a recent YouTube video, Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer explained the key challenges facing the team, notably the tough contracts for Jerami Grant and Robert Williams III, as well as Williams’ history of injuries.
This combination of factors makes it difficult for Portland to trade either player, and it could slow down the team’s efforts to rebuild or retool.
Jerami Grant and Robert Williams III’s’ Heavy Contracts Hurting Their Trade Value
Grant is now entering the third year of a five-year, $160 million contract. The deal, which pays him more than $100 million over the next three seasons, is a major financial commitment for a player who has not consistently performed at an All-Star level.
Last season, Grant appeared in only 47 games for the Blazers, averaging 14.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists. While these numbers are decent, they do not justify the size of his contract, and it makes it hard for other teams to take on his salary without the Blazers including valuable draft picks in any deal.
The situation with Williams is also complicated. Williams was acquired from the Boston Celtics in the Jrue Holiday trade in 2023. He was expected to bring defense and athleticism to the Blazers, but his time in Portland has been limited by injuries.
Last season, Williams played in just six games, averaging 6.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, 0.8 assists, and 1.2 blocks per game. He is in the final year of a four-year, $48 million contract and is owed $13 million next season. Given his injury history, which was already a concern during his time with the Celtics, this contract is considered an overpay, and it has hurt his trade value.
These contract situations, combined with each player’s recent performance and health issues, make it nearly impossible for the Blazers to trade Grant or Williams at this time. Most teams are not interested in taking on large contracts for players who are either not living up to their paychecks or are often unavailable due to injury.
Still, there is some hope for the Blazers. If Grant and Williams can stay healthy and play up to the value of their contracts, it could change the outlook for the team. A productive Grant and a healthy Williams would provide veteran leadership and on-court production, which could help Portland compete for a playoff spot, or at least make them a strong candidate for the Play-In Tournament.
The talent is there, but availability and consistent performance will be the key factors moving forward.
