Mark Williams Fails Physical Lakers Rescind Trade With Hornets

The Los Angeles Lakers have rescinded their trade for Mark Williams claiming the Charlotte Hornets had a “failure to satisfy a condition of the trade.” The Lakers found multiple issues with Williams on his physical, but it was not due to his back.

On the eve of the trade deadline, the Lakers agreed to acquire Williams from the Hornets for Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, an unprotected 2031 first round pick and a 2030 first round pick swap. The trade was conditional on both Williams and Knecht passing their physical. 

Williams 23, has been limited during the first three seasons of his career. Williams played 43 games as a rookie and then just 19 in 23-24 and has currently played in 23 games. Williams is averaging 15.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.2 blocks in 25.0 minutes this season.

The Lakers will have to waive a player to create an open roster spot to take back Knecht and Williams. Because the Lakers are above the first apron, the cannot sign any buyout players who were previously making more than the midlevel exception.