Mark Williams Reflects on Trade Saga After Failed Physical with Lakers

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Mark Williams of the Charlotte Hornets experienced a whirlwind of emotions after a trade that would have sent him to the Los Angeles Lakers fell through due to a failed physical exam. The incident unfolded shortly after the February 6 NBA trade deadline, leaving players and fans alike in disbelief.

Williams, who has recently logged significant court time after recovering from an injury, expressed his shock upon learning that the trade had been rescinded. “Yeah, there’s not really much I can do,” Williams said. “Like I said, I’ve been playing. You went from shocked to excited, back to shocked. You control what you can control.”

Sources indicated that the Lakers’ medical staff had flagged multiple issues during Williams’ physical, although they did not cite concerns relating to his back. This outcome surprised Williams, who felt healthy and had just played a considerable number of minutes on the night of the proposed trade. “The night I got traded I played hella minutes. I didn’t think in any world that was possible,” he added.

Despite the unexpected turn of events, Williams remains focused on his performance. “Since I’ve been back at the start of the year, I’ve played games with a lot of minutes. I feel like every injury I’ve had has been well-documented, and I’ve recovered and been 100% since. So, I don’t know what went into that decision. I think that’s up to them,” he stated.

As fate would have it, Williams’ first game back will be against the Lakers on February 19 at 10:00 p.m. ET. “Can’t write it any other way right? NBA script. It’s just what it is,” Williams remarked, highlighting the irony of facing the team that attempted to acquire him.

The trade had generated excitement not only for Williams but for Lakers fans and players as well. Following the canceled trade, some players around the league expressed their relief. Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George weighed in on a podcast, saying, “I think it’s gonna work… Thank God the Mark Williams s*** didn’t go through… Good Luck in the West — it’s gonna be a nightmare when you play the Lakers.”

Williams had recently put up a stunning performance, scoring 38 points in a game just a week prior, reinforcing the belief that he could fill a crucial role for the Lakers. With the unresolved situation and upcoming matchup, all eyes will be on Williams as he confronts the opportunity to turn a setback into motivation.