The Portland Trail Blazers dropped another game to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday night by a score of 127-102. While the match wasn’t too competitive, Portland may have found something to push their team forward.

Center Robert Williams III made his season debut after being sidelined by a hamstring issue that delayed his start. In 17 minutes, Williams III made his impact known and Portland could play him more forward.

He scored 13 points on four-of-five shooting, with three rebounds, two assists, two steals and one block. The energetic big man now gives the Trail Blazers some extra firepower in the frontcourt as they move forward throughout the season.

He normally played at the center position, but Portland gave him time at the power forward spot in the loss to Minnesota. Williams III played alongside rookie center Donovan Clingan and made his impact known.

If he continues to perform well at the power forward position, he could see more playing time. Portland has a surplus of big men who all compete in the center spot for minutes.

Portland will likely manage its minutes in the future to avoid upsets. Williams III has had an unfortunate injury history, so the Trail Blazers will be cautious in how they play him.

But even with Williams III back in the lineup, Portland couldn’t overcome some offensive issues. Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups mentioned the offensive game plan, but also praised the Timberwolves’ execution.

“We could never really score at the level you need against a team like this,” Billups said. “And that’s not just us not taking photos. They are as good as a defensive team. They got us out of a lot of things with their physicality.

Portland will have to see how Williams III and others continue to develop together on the field. The veteran center could be a nice trade piece for the Trail Blazers, so any time he can play his stock in the league should get a boost.

He can energize a team off the bench and rebound. Most teams are looking for pieces in the frontcourt, giving Portland the potential to have an advantage in any trade talks for Williams III.

His debut went well, but now he will need to continue his solid impact as the year progresses.

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