Lakers Stun NBA with Blockbuster Trade Move for Rising Star

Lakers’ Trade for Hornets’ Mark Williams Collapses After Failed Physical
February 9, 2025

The Los Angeles Lakers’ attempt to acquire Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams in a deadline-day trade has been voided after Williams failed his physical, sources confirmed Friday. The proposed deal would have sent Lakers rookie Dalton Knecht, forward Cam Reddish, and draft assets to Charlotte for Williams.

[Image 1: Lakers’ Dalton Knecht in action during a game]
Dalton Knecht briefly appeared headed to Charlotte before the trade unraveled.

The Lakers had aggressively pursued Williams to bolster their frontcourt after trading Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks for superstar Luka Dončić. However, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported “multiple issues” flagged in Williams’ medical exam, though his back—a prior concern for the 23-year-old—was not the cause.

Implications for Both Teams
With the trade nullified, the Lakers’ frontcourt depth remains a glaring issue. Williams had averaged 15.6 points and 9.6 rebounds this season, offering the defensive presence L.A. sought. The Hornets, meanwhile, retain their starting center as they languish at 13-36, second-worst in the Eastern Conference.

[Image 2: Hornets’ Mark Williams during a game]
Mark Williams returns to Charlotte after the failed trade.

For the Lakers, Knecht’s return provides a silver lining. The 23-year-old rookie, drafted 17th overall in 2024, averages 9.4 points and 3.1 rebounds while shooting 46.5% from the field. His standout 37-point game against Utah in December highlighted his potential as a scoring threat around LeBron James and Dončić.

Knecht’s Resurgence
Knecht’s preseason 35-point outburst against Phoenix had already sparked optimism. His perimeter shooting and offensive versatility now become critical for the Lakers, who rank fourth in the West (31-19) amid a five-game win streak.

What’s Next?
The Lakers face Utah on Monday, while the Hornets regroup in a lost season. Though the collapsed deal leaves both teams recalibrating, Knecht’s resurgence could prove pivotal for L.A.’s playoff ambitions.

— Follow for updates on this developing story.
(Images: Getty, AP)*

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