By Sunday 
Lakers Pull Off Another Trade Shockwave
The Los Angeles Lakers have once again stunned the NBA world, pulling off a surprise trade for 23-year-old center Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets. While rumors swirled about the Lakers’ need for a big man after trading Anthony Davis, Williams was never publicly considered a target—making this move even more unexpected.
A Deal No One Saw Coming
To land Williams, the Lakers sent Charlotte a 2031 first-round pick, a 2030 pick swap, Cam Reddish, and rookie Dalton Knecht. Many expected the Lakers to chase Indiana’s Myles Turner, but general manager Rob Pelinka had other plans. Known for working in secrecy, Pelinka orchestrated yet another stealthy acquisition—just days after bringing Luka Dončić to Los Angeles in a blockbuster deal.
How the Trade Unfolded
Pelinka revealed that it was the Hornets who initiated the talks, reaching out about L.A.’s need for a center. According to The Athletic’s Jovan Buha, the entire negotiation took less than 48 hours. “Charlotte reached out to LA regarding their need for a center. The Mark Williams trade was negotiated and agreed upon between the two sides in less than two days,” Buha reported.
Pelinka’s Masterclass in Team Building
This latest move follows a pattern—Pelinka capitalizes on sudden opportunities rather than waiting for long-drawn negotiations. The Dončić trade came together rapidly, and the Williams deal followed the same blueprint. Once Charlotte made Williams available, the Lakers wasted no time securing their man.
What Williams Brings to the Lakers
Williams’ arrival gives the Lakers a much-needed presence in the paint. With Dončić now running the show alongside LeBron James, Williams’ rebounding and rim protection could be the missing piece for a deep playoff run. While it remains to be seen if he’s the long-term answer at center, one thing is certain—the Lakers are fully committed to contending, and Pelinka isn’t done yet.