Trail Blazers sign Robert Williams III and Branden Carlson, complicating Yang's role
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 3, 2026, 1:05 AM
Last updated Jul 3, 2026
The Portland Trail Blazers have signed center Robert Williams III to a three-year, $44 million contract on the first day of free agency. Additionally, they added Branden Carlson on a one-year, $2.5 million deal. These acquisitions place greater pressure on Hansen Yang, the Blazers' 2025 first-round pick, who underperformed in his rookie season, averaging just seven minutes per game. Carlson’s impressive late-season performance with Oklahoma City raises the stakes for Yang as competition for minutes intensifies ahead of training camp.
- •Robert Williams III returns to the Blazers after signing a three-year deal.
- •Branden Carlson joins Portland, increasing competition for the center position.
- •Hansen Yang had limited playing time as a rookie with poor performance.
- •Carlson's late-season success with the Thunder adds intrigue to the Blazers' lineup.
- •Yang may need to compete for minutes as training camp approaches.
- 1:05 AMYahoo Sports — What to Make of Hansen Yang After Trail Blazers Sign Robert Williams III, Branden Carlson
"Portland’s surprise draft pick faces a crowded frontcourt as veteran reinforcements and rising threats jeopardize his rotation spot, turning the former lottery selection's developmental path into a uphill battle.
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