What just happened! While the Laker Nation is still busy rejoicing about the 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 has come at a very hefty price.
Yes, Pelinka is sending star rookie Dalton Knecht among other assets to Charlotte as part of the deal. Obviously, this must have been a difficult decision for the GM because Knecht had turned into an instant sensation in LA. Many even deemed him the Steal of the draft as he is averaging 9.4 points and over three rebounds. But it’s clear that Williams fit the Lakers’ need better, especially with Luka on the roster.
Doncic reportedly expressed his desire to play alongside a mobile big who provides the Slovenian Sensation vertical spacing and is a constant lob threat. And Williams is perfect for that role. Moreover, he has a special connection with JJ Redick that very few know about. Turns out, they had a mentor/mentee dynamic while Mark was at Duke. Obviously, JJ is a Duke legend himself and that might be the reason Pelinka made the tough choice of picking 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
(Developing Story)
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