Report: Failed physical nixes Lakers' trade for Mark Williams

Field Level Media|published: Sat 8th February, 22:07 2025

Dec 13, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams (5) dunks the ball against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images

The trade sending center Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets to the Los Angeles Lakers has been rescinded, the Lakers announced Saturday night.

According to ESPN, Williams' physical with the Lakers "showed multiple issues and the team failed him on the exam."

The Lakers agreed to send Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, a 2030 pick swap and their 2031 first-round pick to the Hornets for the 23-year-old Williams on Wednesday night. But the 7-foot Williams had yet to suit up for the Lakers, including their Saturday afternoon game against the Indiana Pacers.

Before the game, Los Angeles coach JJ Redick told reporters "the trade is still pending."

Williams was expected to provide inside offense and defensive rim protection to complement the duo of LeBron James and Luka Doncic, whom the Lakers acquired via a trade with the Dallas Mavericks last weekend.

Williams, in his third NBA season, has struggled with injuries in his career, playing in only 85 games in his two-plus seasons. When he has played, Williams has been effective with averages of 11.6 points and 8.3 rebounds in his career.

In 23 games (20 starts) this season, Williams has averaged 15.6 points and 9.6 rebounds.

Williams was a first-round pick (15th overall0 in 2022 out of Duke.

--Field Level Media