The Los Angeles Lakers have continued their aggressive push to reshape their roster ahead of Thursday’s NBA trade deadline, acquiring Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams in a major deal, sources confirmed to ESPN’s Shams Charania on Wednesday night.
In exchange for Williams, the Lakers sent rookie Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, an unprotected 2031 first-round pick, and a 2030 pick swap to the Hornets. The move underscores the front office’s commitment to addressing the team’s need for a mobile, rim-protecting big man—a missing piece that vice president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka had publicly acknowledged.
Williams’ Fit with the Lakers
Standing at 7 feet tall and weighing 240 pounds, Williams brings size, athleticism, and defensive presence to the Lakers. He also aligns with new star Luka Doncic’s preferred playing style, offering a lob threat and vertical spacing in the paint.
Sources indicate that Doncic met with Lakers executives earlier this week, emphasizing his desire to have a dynamic big man on the roster. Given Williams’ ability to finish around the rim and protect the paint, the former Duke standout fits the mold of the center Doncic envisioned playing alongside.
This season, Williams has averaged 16 points on 59.7% shooting, along with 9.8 rebounds per game for Charlotte. His presence immediately strengthens a Lakers frontcourt that recently lost Anthony Davis in the blockbuster trade that brought Doncic to Los Angeles.
Lakers’ Deadline Overhaul
The Lakers have been one of the most active teams leading up to the trade deadline, reshaping their core in just four days. In a series of aggressive moves, L.A. has parted ways with two first-round picks and multiple key rotation players—including Davis, Max Christie, and Knecht—while acquiring Doncic and Williams.
Despite these changes, the Lakers have managed to balance both short- and long-term goals. While continuing to compete for a championship with LeBron James still dominant in his 22nd season, they have also structured their roster around a young core, with Doncic (25) and Williams (23) forming a long-term foundation.
Williams also has a strong connection to head coach JJ Redick. The two share a Duke University background, where Redick, a former Blue Devil himself, had previously served as a mentor figure for Williams.
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Concerns Over Williams’ Durability
One of the primary concerns surrounding Williams is his injury history. The young center has played in only 84 of a possible 212 games (39.6%) in his first two and a half seasons in the NBA. Back and foot injuries have sidelined him for significant stretches, though sources indicate that none required surgery. The Lakers are reportedly confident in his long-term health after thorough medical evaluations.
Next Steps for the Lakers
With the trade complete, the Lakers still have one second-round pick available to move before the deadline. Additionally, by executing a two-for-one trade, L.A. has freed up a roster spot, which could be crucial in pursuing a player on the buyout market.
The Lakers may now shift their focus toward adding playmaking or three-point shooting, especially after losing Knecht. The rookie, selected No. 17 overall in June, had been praised by Redick for his shooting ability. Knecht showed early-season promise, with five games in November featuring four or more three-pointers.
As the trade deadline looms, Los Angeles remains in win-now mode, actively shaping its roster around its new star duo of Doncic and Williams. With James still playing at an elite level, the Lakers appear determined to make another deep postseason run while securing a sustainable future for the franchise.
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