Lakers Consulted Luka Doncic About Trade for Big Man

The Los Angeles Lakers acquired five-time NBA All-Star Luka Dončić from the Dallas Mavericks in February but lost Anthony Davis, leaving them without a center. Shortly after, the Lakers consulted Dončić about trading for Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams, whom Dončić specifically requested.

The Hornets accepted a Lakers trade offer involving 2024 draft pick Dalton Knecht (No. 17 overall), a 2030 pick swap, and a 2031 first-round pick for Williams. However, the Lakers rescinded the deal after Williams reportedly failed his physical examination. Both Williams and his agent disputed that the physical was the sole reason, with Williams stating, "I don't think it was solely because of my physical... they had second thoughts."

Despite never having played together, Dončić had personally selected the 7-foot Williams from potential trade targets. The Lakers' failure to acquire a center subsequently impacted their playoff performance, resulting in a first-round Western Conference elimination for the second consecutive season.

Williams, who averaged 15.3 points and 10.2 rebounds with Charlotte, later recorded 10 points and 9 rebounds against the Lakers in a Hornets victory. He was eventually traded to the Phoenix Suns during the 2025 NBA Draft. The Lakers never commented beyond citing the physical for canceling the trade.

Ultimately, the Lakers addressed their center need by signing 7-foot Deandre Ayton to a two-year, $16.6 million contract in July.