Lakers made recent trade to support Luka Doncic

On Wednesday, the Los Angeles Lakers pulled off a significant trade, which seems to have been made to satisfy their new star acquisition – Luka Doncic.

The Lakers traded for center Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets, sending Dalton Knecht and Cam Reddish, along with an unprotected first-round pick in 2031 and a 2030 pick swap.

After the Lakers traded Anthony Davis to Dallas in exchange for Doncic, there was immediate discussion about the need for a center. It seems that making Doncic happy was a major factor in this decision.

ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported that Doncic specifically requested the Lakers bring in a center who could serve as a lob threat.

The Lakers’ move to acquire Williams came one day after general manager Rob Pelinka downplayed expectations. Pelinka had noted that the market for big men was “dry” and suggested that no significant moves would be made. Despite Pelinka’s comments, acquiring Williams cost the Lakers Knecht and a future first-round pick.