Mark Williams nearly became a Los Angeles Lakers player following the trade deadline last month. However, the Dalton Knecht trade did not materialize because of the big man's injuries.
While Luka Doncic is looking for a legit center to help them in the paint, there's a chance that he could be reunited with a former Dallas Mavericks teammate if the Williams deal does not push through this summer.
Mark Williams Asks Lakers Questions After Trade Failure
Mark Williams questioned the true motives of the Los Angeles Lakers when they subsequently nixed the trade.
Talking with the Charlotte Observer in February, Williams expressed confidence that he had prior injuries and never gave it a second thought regarding not passing a physical. Though Williams believed he was in top condition, the trade was called off, and he harbored residual doubt.
Sources indicated that Williams initially was reluctant to return to Charlotte following the aborted trade. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Hornets are likely to shop Williams in trade again during the 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"Mark Williams is obviously back with the Hornets after the Lakers rescinded their February trade for the Charlotte big man, but some rival executives expect the Williams trade market to be re-explored this summer," Stein wrote in his March 19 Substack article.
Although the Lakers know that Williams is an unstoppable force in the paint because of his rebounding, the team might have a second thought because of his failed physical. The injuries are a big deal for a contender team, especially since the playoff season is drawing closer.
Nonetheless, most teams still want the rim protection and rebounding skills he possesses. Williams could find a new home soon.
Since both Williams and the Charlotte Hornets seem to be looking to move on, the team will probably try to shop around for a trade partner who is willing to take a chance on the talented big man.
Daniel Gafford Could Be One of Lakers' Option For Big Man
Although the Mark Williams trade did not happen, the Lakers are likely to continue seeking a dependable big man this offseason. The Lakers will look to sign another center to combine with their franchise stars.
According to Sportskeeda, Luka Doncic wished to play with a legitimate center because that's what he did when he was in Dallas. Since Anthony Davis is on the verge of returning to the Mavericks, there's a chance that the Lakers could grab Daniel Gafford in an unexpected trade.
The Lakers will have to give up Austin Reaves and other assets, but this will likely be just a facade. More importantly, the team is looking to move Knecht and if the Mavs seal the deal, then this would be a win-win for both teams.
The failed Williams-Knecht trade may have stalled the progress of both teams, but it does not mean that they won't stop looking for better alternatives.
Gafford has already seen success with Doncic and with this, he could easily memorize the chemistry once he bleeds purple and gold.
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