Portland Trail Blazers center Robert Williams III has suffered a setback in training camp. The team announced that Williams experienced a grade one left hamstring strain, which will sideline him for two weeks, via NBA insider Michael Scotto.
Williams’ latest injury comes as he was cleared for training camp following knee surgery that ended his 2023-24 season after just six games. Despite being healthy enough to participate in camp, the hamstring strain will delay his full return to action.
The setback is unfortunate for Williams, who has struggled with injuries throughout his career. In October 2023, he was traded to the Trail Blazers as part of a deal that sent Jrue Holiday to the Boston Celtics.
Williams made his Blazers debut on October 25, 2023, scoring 10 points and grabbing seven rebounds against the Los Angeles Clippers. However, his season was cut short by a patellar dislocation just six games into his time with Portland.
Following successful knee surgery, Williams spent the offseason rehabbing and was fully cleared to join the Blazers for training camp in September 2024. His goal was to return in full form, but the hamstring injury will delay that process.
The Blazers remain hopeful that Williams will recover quickly and be ready for the start of the regular season. His two-week timeline means he could still be available for the team’s season opener.
