The Los Angeles Lakers have rescinded their trade to acquire Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams after the 23-year-old failed his physical, a person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press on Saturday night.
The Lakers had agreed to send rookie Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, and future draft considerations to Charlotte in exchange for Williams, a former first-round pick. The Hornets were also set to receive the Lakers’ 2031 first-round pick and a 2030 first-round pick swap. However, the deal was scrapped due to a “failure to satisfy a condition of the trade,” the Lakers announced in a brief statement.
Williams has struggled with injuries throughout his three-year NBA career, appearing in just 84 of a possible 212 games due to persistent back issues and other ailments. The Lakers’ decision to void the trade underscores concerns about his long-term durability.
Lakers Left in a Tough Spot
The failed trade leaves Los Angeles without a proven big man to pair with Jaxson Hayes following the blockbuster deal that sent Anthony Davis and Max Christie to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for superstar Luka Dončić. With Williams no longer joining the roster, Hayes is expected to retain his starting center role, while newly signed Trey Jemison III and Christian Koloko—both on two-way contracts—could see increased minutes in the rotation.
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Coach JJ Redick, who previously expressed excitement about Williams’ potential, must now regroup as the Lakers search for additional frontcourt depth. Meanwhile, the buyout market for big men remains limited, adding to the team’s challenges.
Hornets Welcome Williams Back
Following the reversal of the trade, the Hornets confirmed Williams’ return to their roster in a statement.
“We are excited to welcome Mark back to our Hornets organization,” the team said. “After the other team aggressively pursued Mark, we made the difficult decision to move him. 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.”
What’s Next for the Lakers?
Despite the roster uncertainty, the Lakers have won 11 of their last 13 games, including a 124-117 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Saturday—without LeBron James or Dončić in the lineup. However, with limited options in the buyout market and no immediate internal reinforcements, Los Angeles must decide whether to seek another trade or stand pat with its current roster.
Meanwhile, Christian Wood, who has been sidelined all season following knee surgery, remains a potential in-house solution if he can return in time for the playoffs. Until then, the Lakers face a crucial stretch as they attempt to maintain their momentum and solidify their standing in the Western Conference.
