What just happened! While Laker Nation is still busy rejoicing about the shocking addition of Luka Doncic, Rob Pelinka has dropped another bombshell with a blockbuster move. Turns out, he has solved the team’s big man problem by acquiring seven-footer Mark Williams from the Hornets. However, the trade comes at a very hefty price, and Rob’s decision might have been influenced by JJ Redick’s connection to the star Center.
In an absolute shocker, Pelinka is sending star rookie Dalton Knecht among other assets to Charlotte as part of the deal. Obviously, this must have been a difficult call for the GM because Knecht had turned into an instant sensation in LA. Many even deemed him the steal of last year’s draft as the rookie is averaging 9.4 points and over three rebounds. But it’s clear that Williams fits the Lakers’ need better, especially with Luka on the roster.
Doncic reportedly expressed his desire to play alongside a mobile big, who is a constant lob threat, and his vertical spacing provides the Slovenian Sensation more options on offense. And Williams is perfect for that role. Moreover, he has old ties to JJ Redick that very few know about. Turns out, they had a mentor/mentee dynamic while Mark was at Duke University before making it to the NBA. Obviously, JJ is a Duke legend himself, and their relationship might be one of the reasons Pelinka picked Williams over Knecht for the long haul.
Mark Williams, 23, can progress on Luka Doncic’s timeline and has ties to Lakers coach JJ Redick, who had a mentor/mentee dynamic with him when he was at Duke University, sources told ESPN.
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) February 6, 2025
Apart from the star rookie, Pelinka also gave up Cam Reddish, a 2031 unprotected first-round pick and a 2030 pick swap to acquire the Hornets Center. But the sacrifice might be worth it.
Mark Williams NBA Stats
Luka performs his best when he is playing alongside multiple bigs. It became evident when he led the Mavs to the NBA Finals last season with the help of Dereck Lively II, Maxi Kleber and others. Well, Williams will be expected to play the same role for the LA franchise. As much as Knecht’s departure stings, Mark is exactly what the Lakers needed, as the seven-footer is averaging 16 points and nearly ten rebounds. Of course, he is also an elite defender, getting over one block per night.
Feb 1, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams (5) shoots over Denver Nuggets guard Julian Strawther (3) during the second half of play at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Brian Westerholt-Imagn Images
Even playing at Duke, Mark averaged 2.3 blocks in two college seasons. Adding him could make the Lakers instant title contenders. More importantly, he is only 23-years-old, which means he could be Luka’s running mate for years to come. And that would make the LA franchise the team to beat for a very long time. Pelinka’s move might truly be a masterstroke. Do you agree?
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