Lakers Rescind Trade for Mark Williams After Failed Physical

The Los Angeles Lakers have rescinded their trade with the Charlotte Hornets for center Mark Williams after Williams failed his physical examination. The decision nullifies the deal, which originally sent rookie Dalton Knecht, forward Cam Reddish, a 2030 pick swap, and the Lakers’ 2031 first-round pick to Charlotte in exchange for Williams.

Trade Rescinded Due to Health Concerns

The Lakers’ medical team flagged concerns about Williams’ health during his physical assessment, leading to the cancellation of the trade. As a result, all players and assets involved in the deal will return to their original teams. This marks a significant setback for the Lakers, who were looking to strengthen their frontcourt with Williams’ presence.

Lakers Respond by Signing Alex Len

In light of the failed trade, the Lakers swiftly moved to address their need for a center by signing free agent Alex Len. Len, a seasoned big man, is expected to provide frontcourt depth following the departure of Anthony Davis, who was traded to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Luka Dončić. To accommodate Len on the roster, the Lakers waived Christian Wood, who has been dealing with injuries throughout the season.

Hornets Challenge Lakers’ Assessment

The Charlotte Hornets, meanwhile, are disputing the Lakers’ evaluation of Williams’ condition. The franchise has reached out to the NBA to explore their options, potentially challenging the trade’s reversal. Despite the failed transaction, the Hornets have expressed their commitment to keeping Williams as part of their future plans.

Dalton Knecht and Cam Reddish Remain Lakers

With the trade nullified, Dalton Knecht and Cam Reddish remain with the Lakers. Knecht, a promising rookie, has demonstrated his scoring ability, including a career-high 37-point performance against the Utah Jazz earlier in the season. Reddish, known for his defensive versatility, will also continue to play a role in the Lakers’ rotation.

Lakers’ Current Standing and Upcoming Schedule

Despite the trade setback, the Lakers remain in playoff contention, currently holding the fifth seed in the Western Conference with a 32-19 record. The team will now shift its focus to the remainder of the season as they aim to solidify their position in the standings. Here’s a look at their upcoming schedule:

• Feb 19: Charlotte Hornets @ Los Angeles Lakers (7:00 PM PST)
• Feb 20: Los Angeles Lakers @ Portland Trail Blazers (7:00 PM PST)
• Feb 22: Los Angeles Lakers @ Denver Nuggets (5:30 PM PST)
• Feb 25: Dallas Mavericks @ Los Angeles Lakers (7:00 PM PST)
• Feb 27: Minnesota Timberwolves @ Los Angeles Lakers (7:30 PM PST)
• Feb 28: LA Clippers @ Los Angeles Lakers (7:00 PM PST)
• Mar 02: LA Clippers @ Los Angeles Lakers (6:30 PM PST)
• Mar 04: New Orleans Pelicans @ Los Angeles Lakers (7:30 PM PST)
• Mar 06: New York Knicks @ Los Angeles Lakers (7:00 PM PST)
• Mar 08: Los Angeles Lakers @ Boston Celtics (5:30 PM PST)
• Mar 10: Los Angeles Lakers @ Brooklyn Nets (4:30 PM PDT)
• Mar 13: Los Angeles Lakers @ Milwaukee Bucks (4:30 PM PDT)
• Mar 14: Los Angeles Lakers @ Denver Nuggets (6:30 PM PDT)
• Mar 16: Phoenix Suns @ Los Angeles Lakers (12:30 PM PDT)
• Mar 17: San Antonio Spurs @ Los Angeles Lakers (7:30 PM PDT)
• Mar 19: Denver Nuggets @ Los Angeles Lakers (7:00 PM PDT)
• Mar 20: Milwaukee Bucks @ Los Angeles Lakers (7:30 PM PDT)
• Mar 22: Chicago Bulls @ Los Angeles Lakers (7:30 PM PDT)
• Mar 24: Los Angeles Lakers @ Orlando Magic (4:00 PM PDT)
• Mar 26: Los Angeles Lakers @ Indiana Pacers (4:30 PM PDT)

The Lakers’ front office will likely continue to explore roster moves as they push for a deep playoff run. The voided trade and subsequent signing of Alex Len indicate the franchise’s ongoing efforts to optimize its roster for the remainder of the season.