Lakers Trade Grade for Mark Williams Deal
The Los Angeles Lakers have been one of the busiest teams leading up to the NBA trade deadline. On Thursday, they made their third trade of the season, acquiring center Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, a 2023 first-round pick, and a 2030 pick swap.
The Lakers’ trade activity began in December when they dealt D’Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets for Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton. This was followed by a major trade for Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks, sending Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick in return.
After acquiring Doncic, the Lakers found themselves with even more gaps in their lineup, despite adding a generational talent. They particularly lacked a starting center, and it now seems they have addressed that need.
While it’s uncertain when Williams will debut for the Lakers, here’s our early assessment of their latest trade.
Mark Williams Becomes Lakers’ Starting Center
The most glaring hole in the Lakers’ roster after Anthony Davis’ departure was the absence of a starting-quality center. While Jaxson Hayes has stepped up admirably in Davis’ absence, his performance, including in the Lakers’ 122-97 victory following the Doncic deal, hasn’t been enough for a full-time starting role.
Immediately after the trade of Davis for Doncic, Lakers GM Rob Pelinka suggested that the team wouldn’t likely make another significant move by the trade deadline, particularly for a center, with such a move expected to occur in the offseason.
However, the Lakers have now pulled off a significant move for a legitimate starting center. Williams, the 15th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, is only 23 years old and entering his third year in the league.
Although Williams has battled a foot injury this season, which sidelined him for the first few months, there are no concerns from the Lakers’ side, according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.
Williams has played 22 games this season, averaging 16.0 points, 9.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.2 blocks per game, with shooting splits of 59.7% from the field and 77.6% from the free-throw line.
Knecht, though solid for the Lakers as a rookie, had found a place in the rotation but struggled at times. He had recently rediscovered his shooting touch.
Reddish, who briefly started when Redick moved Russell to the bench, later dropped to a backup role and eventually lost his place in the rotation.
The Lakers saw an opportunity to secure a legitimate starting center, something they couldn’t afford to pass up. This move underscores that the Lakers are still focused on winning now. While the Doncic trade positions them with a superstar for the long term, the Williams acquisition ensures they remain competitive in the Western Conference this season.
With LeBron James still leading the team, the Lakers owe it to him to remain in contention, and bringing in Williams strengthens that cause. This trade is a major win for the Lakers.
Final Trade Grade: A
