The Los Angeles Lakers traded for Mark Williams at the 2025 deadline only for the deal to be rescinded because of a failed physical. The issues were likely with his feet, and Williams was just ruled out for two to three weeks with a stress reaction in his left foot. The Suns did everything possible to keep him healthy, but the big man is again missing significant time.
Injuries have been a problem throughout Williams’ NBA career. He has played in a career-high 56 games already this season, but this injury could keep him out for the rest of the year. Foot injuries are always a problem for big men, and can often keep them out much longer than the initial timetable.
The rescinded trade left the Lakers with a massive hole that they still haven’t filled. LA brought in Deandre Ayton, but he hasn’t been the answer. Fans often wonder what could have been with Williams. The Lakers were proven right by this injury, and the questions will quickly shift to whether the 24-year-old ever plays 65-plus games in a season.
Lakers decision on Mark Williams trade proven right by latest injury
The 7’1 big man was confused why the deal didn’t happen. He was healthy at the time of the trade and playing well. He admitted that failing his physical never crossed his mind, but the purple and gold clearly saw something they didn’t like.
The Suns traded for Williams in the offseason. They limited his minutes and ramped him up slowly in hopes of keeping him healthy long-term. It helped him play a career-high 56 games, but it impacted his production. Williams averaged just 11.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks in 23.6 minutes per game. It was the fewest rejections of his career and the lowest points, boards, and playing time since his rookie campaign. Even that couldn’t keep him on the floor for a full season.
Luka Doncic wanted a center to be his pick-and-roll partner from the moment he arrived in Los Angeles. The Lakers have failed in granting that wish. They almost had Williams, but were wise to let that opportunity pass. Ayton has failed.
It is on Rob Pelinka and the front office to find the long-term solution this summer. The purple and gold have cap space, three tradeable first-round draft picks, and a clear need. There are no excuses not to fill it.
Fans are hoping for the best of Mark Williams. He will be out for at least two weeks. The Suns are headed to the postseason. Hopefully, the big man returns to the floor and gets his first playoff experience.
The Los Angeles Lakers were proven right to rescind the Mark Williams trade. Nobody wants it to be this way. The 24-year-old was having a strong year playing for a contender for the first time. The injury leaves a fresh set of questions and should squash the what-if moments. Sadly, Williams may just never stay healthy for a full season.