The Hornets are trading away center Mark Williams again four months after a deal to the [Lakers fell through following a failed physical](https://www.masslive.com/celtics/2025/02/boston-celtics-rival-rescinds-crucial-trade-deadline-deal-with-hornets.html). This time, Phoenix is acquiring Mark Williams from the Hornets in exchange for the No. 29 overall pick and a 2029 first-round pick (least favorable of Utah, Cleveland, Minnesota).
The Lakers originally agreed to send Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, a 2031 first round pick and a 2030 first round pick swap in exchange for Williams back at the trade deadline in February. However, the Lakers failed Williams physical, creating an awkward situation in the second half of last season where Williams rejoined the Hornets.
Williams now heads to a Suns squad that is desperate for help at the center position. Phoenix also took big man
Khaman Maluach out of Duke with the No. 10 overall pick (via Houston), building some depth in the frontcourt in the wake of the Suns trading away Kevin Durant to the Rockets last week.
Williams, 23, is entering the final year of his rookie deal and is set to make $6.2 million next season. He averaged a double-double last year, posting 15.3 points and 10.2 rebounds per game. However, he’s been injury plagued through his career, appearing in just 106 games during his first three NBA seasons due to injuries.
Charlotte now has four picks in the 2025 NBA Draft. They already selected Kon Knueppel with the No. 4 overall pick on Wednesday night.