The Los Angeles Lakers are still active in the market before the trade deadline, having recently secured star Luka Doncic.

With Anthony Davis now in Dallas, the Lakers needed a strong center, and they brought in the talented 7-foot Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets, according to a source familiar with the trade who spoke to YSL News Sports on the condition of anonymity.

The Lakers’ acquisition cost the Hornets rookie Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, a first-round pick in 2031, and a pick swap for 2030 as the Lakers aim for immediate success with 40-year-old LeBron James while also looking to prepare for life after him under their new coach, JJ Redick.

Analyzing the Lakers-Hornets trade:

Los Angeles Lakers grade: B

Williams is undoubtedly an impressive and athletic player. However, the 23-year-old center has faced injury challenges, playing only 43 games his rookie year, 19 the following season, and 22 games this season—mostly due to issues with his left knee and foot.

Currently, he averages 15.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.2 blocks per game, boasting an impressive shooting percentage of 58.6% from the field and 78% from the free-throw line. He achieved a personal best of 38 points along with nine rebounds and five assists against Memphis on January 22 and had an impressive game with 19 points and 19 rebounds versus Chicago on January 17.

He pairs well in pick-and-roll scenarios with both James and Doncic. However, given his injury track record, the trade carries a degree of risk. The Lakers are now lacking first-round picks for the years 2025, 2027, 2029, and 2031.

Charlotte Hornets grade: B+

Trading a player with Williams’ upside is challenging, but his injury concerns make it a more manageable decision. The Hornets are in the midst of a rebuilding phase, guided by their first-year general manager Jeff Peterson and first-year coach Charles Lee.

The Hornets hold their own first-round picks for the next seven drafts, as well as a first-round pick from Miami expected in either 2027 or 2028, a probable first-round pick coming from Dallas in 2027, and a 2031 first-round pick from the Lakers.

With these assets accumulated, the Hornets are well-positioned to either infuse youthful talent into their squad or trade picks to bring in established players.