Mark Williams remains with the Hornets after the LA Lakers rescinded their trade due to a failed physical, but NBA executives expect his trade market to be revisited this summer.
“Mark Williams is obviously back with the Hornets after the Lakers rescinded their February trade for the Charlotte big man, but some rival executives expect the Williams trade market to be re-explored this summer,” NBA insider Marc Stein reported.
“The Hornets have tried to shut down similar speculation about star guard LaMelo Ball, but the reality remains that Williams, Ball, and Brandon Miller have managed to appear in the same game just 18 times over the past two seasons.”
The LA Lakers voided their trade for Williams after he failed his physical due to multiple health concerns. In response, the Hornets engaged with the NBA to explore options for challenging Los Angeles’ assessment.
Meanwhile, Williams’ agent, Jeff Schwartz of Excel Sports Management, strongly criticized the Lakers’ decision.
“The overwhelming sentiment, after conferring with multiple, nationally recognized doctors, is that the Los Angeles Lakers should not have failed Mark Williams on his physical,” the agent stated.
The proposed deal would have sent Williams to LA in exchange for rookie Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, and draft picks.
Williams has played 35 games this season, averaging 15.4 points, 10.0 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.2 blocks per game.
Following the failed trade, the Lakers pivoted by signing center Alex Len in free agency.
