The Los Angeles Lakers have backed out of the previously agreed trade with the Charlotte Hornets for center Mark Williams. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the trade was nixed due to Williams failing his physical.
The Lakers initially agreed to acquire Williams on the trade deadline, sending promising rookie Dalton Knecht, veteran Cam Reddish, a 2030 pick swap, and a 2031 first-round pick to Charlotte. However, the physical “showed multiple issues” according to Charania and the LA team didn’t feel comfortable going through with the trade.
The Hornets acknowledged the failed trade in a statement, saying that they are “thrilled” to have him return to the team.
“After the other team aggressively pursued Mark, we made the difficult decision to move him,” the statement said. “We have always held great respect for Mark’s talent, work ethic, and character. We are thrilled to see him rejoin our roster as a dynamic presence at the starting center position. His return strengthens our team, and we look forward to the impact he will make on and off the court.”
The Lakers traded for Williams following a blockbuster deal that saw them land superstar Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks. They envisioned Williams as a lob threat that perfectly complements Doncic’s game and a long-term solution at the center position.
Now, the Lakers are left with a thin frontcourt that will see 2019’s first-round pick Jaxson Hayes take the starting job. They also have veteran Christian Wood on their roster, but he is currently recovering from a knee surgery and it is unclear when he’ll be back.
Mark Williams, the 15th overall pick in 2022 out of Duke, has been in the midst of his best season as a pro. In 23 games in 2024-25, he has been averaging 15.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 2.5 assists.
