Mark Williams Shares Experience After Lakers Trade Fallout

In a surprising turn of events, center Mark Williams was traded from the Charlotte Hornets to the Los Angeles Lakers last February. However, the excitement was short-lived as the trade was rescinded after Williams did not pass the Lakers' physical exam. Recently, Williams shared his thoughts on this experience during an appearance on the latest episode of The Old Man and the Three podcast.

Williams recalled his initial enthusiasm about joining the Lakers, saying, "I was excited. I was, like, you know, it's time. You know, Charlotte wanted to trade me, whatever.” However, the joy turned to disbelief when he learned of the failed physical. “I’m like, that can’t be, like, I just played the Bucks that night that I got the call I’m getting traded,” he expressed. Williams described the moment when the Lakers confirmed the trade was off, stating, “I was like, y’all can’t undo the undo? Like, what you mean?”

After the failed trade, Williams had to face Charlotte again, stating it was an awkward return as he was looking forward to starting fresh with the Lakers. He candidly admitted, “I was I was just want. I mean, really, I was excited to go there. I thought I was a piece that could really help them.”

Despite the disappointment, Williams finished the season strong with Charlotte, averaging 14.9 points and 10.8 rebounds over 21 games. Meanwhile, the Lakers’ season ended abruptly as they fell to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs. Williams couldn’t resist commenting on the Lakers' playoff exit, noting, “I tweeted little smiley face. Like, I was I was hating.”

Since that time, Williams has found a new home with the Phoenix Suns, where he has been performing admirably. Currently holding a 19-13 record, Williams has started 23 of his 27 games this season, averaging 13.1 points on an impressive 66.5 percent shooting along with 8.2 rebounds per game.

As Williams settles into his role with the Suns, it's clear that he is turning a new chapter in his career, demonstrating resilience and skill on the court.