NBA rumors: Luka Doncic’s take on Lakers’ failed Mark Williams trade
After the Los Angeles Lakers acquired Luka Doncic, sending their star big man Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks, the team’s focus shifted to finding a future center.
The Lakers were close to trading for Mark Williams of the Charlotte Hornets, but the deal was called off after he failed his physical. Reports from Doncic’s camp have shed light on his reaction to the failed trade.
Williams had the potential to be a long-term fit alongside Doncic in Los Angeles, but with the trade no longer going through, speculation arose about possible frustration. However, Marc Stein reported that Doncic understood the need might take until summer to address and was actually “impressed” by the team’s quick attempt to resolve the issue.
“Nevertheless, there has been no visible discontent from the Doncic camp regarding the Lakers backing out of the Williams deal,” Stein noted.
“Sources told The Stein Line that in his first conversation with Lakers VP of basketball operations Rob Pelinka about roster moves, Doncic expressed understanding that it might take until summer to secure that piece and appreciated how quickly the Lakers made their initial attempt.”
“There’s been plenty of skepticism around the league ever since it became clear that the Hornets were trying to revive the trade, though,” Stein wrote earlier.
“Silver further dampened any hopes by confirming at his Saturday press conference that the Hornets hadn’t yet filed a formal protest to challenge the Lakers’ decision to walk away from the deal after the February 6 trade deadline.”
Luka Doncic, Mark Williams duo could have been beneficial for Lakers
Despite the bright future for the Lakers with Doncic and LeBron James, fans were disappointed by the failed trade for Williams. However, as Stein points out, Williams has had a history of injuries.
“Williams, however, came with a notable injury history,” Stein wrote. “He only played in 85 of his first 212 games with Charlotte (40.1%), which caused the Lakers to reconsider after examining him, meaning they now have to restart their search for an impactful big man in the offseason.”
Los Angeles had offered Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, a 2031 unprotected first-round pick, and a first-round pick swap in 2030 to acquire Williams. Pairing him with Doncic could have been a great combination due to his ability to finish lobs and defend the rim.
“Silver also added Saturday that the league office is prepared to ‘see what Charlotte decides to do next,’” Stein reported. “Indicating the matter isn’t over yet.
“However, the commissioner acknowledged he couldn’t recall any instance where ‘there’s been a challenge due to a failed physical,’ saying any such challenge would be subjective in nature.”
The Lakers are currently 32-20, placing them fifth in the Western Conference, and after the All-Star break, they will face off against the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday.