The Los Angeles Lakers were aggressive in their pursuit of a new center after trading Anthony Davis, exploring multiple options before ultimately landing Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets. According to NBA insider Brett Siegel, the Lakers inquired about several rim-protecting big men before finalizing the deal for Williams.
Among those on their radar were Jalen Duren of the Detroit Pistons, Robert Williams III of the Portland Trail Blazers, Myles Turner of the Indiana Pacers, Jericho Sims of the New York Knicks, and Jakob Poeltl of the Toronto Raptors.
While all five players fit the Lakers’ need for an athletic big with defensive versatility, the asking prices for these targets proved to be too steep. Los Angeles initially engaged in discussions with the Pistons regarding Duren, a young and physically dominant center with significant upside, but Detroit was unwilling to part with him without a major return.
Similarly, talks with Indiana over Turner stalled due to his strong play and the Pacers’ current playoff positioning. Portland’s Robert Williams III was another intriguing name, but his extensive injury history made him a risky investment, particularly after the Blazers already lost him for the season due to a knee injury. Sims and Poeltl were also explored as options, but neither deal materialized.
Ultimately, the Lakers pivoted to Mark Williams, who was both attainable and fit their immediate and long-term needs. The trade sent rookie Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, and future draft assets to Charlotte in exchange for the young center. Williams, the 15th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, has shown immense potential as a rim protector and lob threat.
This season, he is averaging 15.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game, while also providing a formidable interior presence. His massive 9’9” standing reach makes him an elite shot-blocking threat, and his ability to run the floor makes him a perfect fit alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
While acquiring Williams was a major move, there are still some concerns regarding his durability. He has only played in 85 games over his first three NBA seasons, dealing with various injuries that have kept him sidelined for extended periods. Despite the risk, the Lakers believe his upside outweighs any potential drawbacks.
If he can stay healthy, he gives Los Angeles a long-term solution at the center position, which had become a glaring weakness after Davis’ departure.
Rob Pelinka has made it clear that the Lakers are all-in on building a championship-caliber team around Doncic and LeBron. The acquisition of Williams is another step in that direction, giving them a young, athletic center to anchor their defense. While there were rumors that Los Angeles might wait until the offseason to address their frontcourt needs, Pelinka wasted no time in securing an immediate upgrade.
With the trade deadline still active, the Lakers may not be done making moves. Reports indicate that they are still exploring additional deals, including the possibility of trading Maxi Kleber’s $11 million contract for another win-now piece.
The Lakers have been among the most aggressive teams in the trade market, solidifying themselves as the biggest winners of the deadline while setting their sights on another championship push.
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