LA Lakers acquisition of Mark Williams was rescinded due to the center failing his physical.

Mark Williams was considered the final piece of the star-studded jigsaw that general manager, Rob Pelinka, and the LA Lakers had been gifted at the trade deadline.

However, according to Shams Charania on X, “Mark Williams’ physical with the Lakers showed multiple issues and the team failed him on the exam.”

Graduating from Duke as the 15th overall pick in the 2022 NBA draft process, the gifted 23 year-old has slowly established himself as a menacing presence in the paint and a physical nightmare for defenders.

A pick and roll combination with the Slovenian magician, Luka Doncic, and the legendary LeBron James was being perceived as one of the most deadly prospects any team would have to face.

The center was having his most efficient season to date with the Charlotte Hornets – playing in 23 games, averaging 15.6 points per game and 9.6 rebounds per game.

JJ Redick and Pelinka will now be desperately scouring the buyout market for a replacement as the gaping hole in their roster could be the reason they miss out on a chance at the championship.

Although, it is not a market booming with extraordinary talent in the center position.

Blessing in disguise?

Physicals are a part of trade deals in every sport – they prevent teams from making additions to their roster that will become a cancer on their salary bill that they cannot shift.

It could be suggested that Williams’ injury record would have been a hindrance rather than a blessing to the LA Lakers’ bid for eternal glory – missing a staggering 128 games out of a possible 212.

Despite Mark Williams’ obvious physical presence and the chemistry that could been established with Luka Doncic, there is no guarantee that he would manage to stay healthy.

Not only will the deal falling through see the center return to Charlotte – Dalton Knecht and Cam Reddish will land back in LA with a point to prove.

Los Angeles will be the team to watch after this trainwreck of a trade has left their front office chasing their tails.

There is never a boring day in the soap opera that is the NBA.