Lakers fans in disbelief after trade for Mark Williams-Dalton Knecht is rescinded.
The Lakers are once again on the hunt for a center after the trade was voided.
The NBA trade deadline had been progressing smoothly for the Los Angeles Lakers, until Saturday evening when it was announced that their deal with the Charlotte Hornets, sending Dalton Knecht for Mark Williams, was being rescinded.
Following the Lakers’ trade with the Dallas Mavericks for Luka Doncic, Anthony Davis’ inclusion left the Lakers without a starting-quality center. However, this seemed resolved with the Lakers’ trade for Mark Williams from the Hornets.
It appears that concerns about Williams’ health were the reason for the Lakers pulling back from the deal, according to Shams Charania of ESPN.
With the trade canceled, the Lakers are back to searching for a big man, leaving fans stunned on social media in reaction to the surprising turn of events.
Some fans also expressed concern about how this would affect Dalton Knecht, the promising Lakers rookie who had been having a strong season.
Lakers’ Austin Reaves’ announcement following the Pacers game has fans buzzing.
With the trade voided, the Lakers’ roster is now back to its full 15-man count. Cam Reddish, who was also part of the deal, is expected to return to the Lakers as well. Now, their only option for adding frontcourt depth is through the buyout market.
Currently, the Lakers are starting Jaxson Hayes at center, with the backup position decided by committee. Besides Hayes, the Lakers’ true centers are Christian Koloko and Trey Jemison, both on two-way contracts and limited in how many games they can play.
To make matters worse, Christian Wood, a legitimate 7-footer, has yet to play this season due to injury, and there is no timetable for his return.
Jarred Vanderbilt’s return has been a positive, making an immediate impact since his return. He suits JJ Redick’s small-ball approach, and this style may become the Lakers’ strategy for the rest of the season.