Robert Williams’ Trail Blazers Debut Comes to a Delay

Thursday, Robert Williams was supposed to suit up for the Trail Blazers for the first time. Hours before tip-off, those plans changed.

Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports

Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups stated Wednesday that new acquisition Robert Williams III was supposed to debut with his new team on Thursday night.

But a few hours before tip-off against the Phoenix Suns, Trail Blazers insider Sean Highkin reported that Williams was inactive as he banged knees with Jerami Grant in practice. Billups labeled it "a nasty collision."

Highkin said that the Trail Blazers were being cautious with Williams due to his soreness. The former Boston Celtic, who turns 26 next week and has a notable injury history, was already getting slowly integrated into Portland's system.

Williams missed the Trail Blazers previous preseason matchup due to them airing on the side of caution and wanting the center to ramp up his conditioning. He came over late, days into the month of October, following the trade sending Jrue Holiday to Boston.

Meanwhile, fellow former Celtic Malcolm Brogdon had a stellar outing last night for Portland, putting up 13 first-quarter points. He displayed his signature scorching shooting efficiency, going 5-7 from the field and 2-4 from distance.

Williams' knee soreness will be something for the Trail Blazers to monitor heading into their season opener.

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