Charlotte Hornets Explore Disputing Lakers' Failed Physical of Mark Williams

The Charlotte Hornets have reached out to the NBA as they seek options to contest the Los Angeles Lakers’ failed physical assessment of center Mark Williams. Sources close to ESPN revealed this development on Monday night.

The Hornets are currently deliberating over their forthcoming actions and are considering channels to either challenge the Lakers’ evaluation method or pursue alternative resolutions with the league office, as reported by insiders.

Last week, Williams was traded in exchange for Lakers rookie Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, a pick swap in 2030, and the Lakers’ 2031 first-round draft pick. However, two days following the trade deadline, the deal was voided after Williams did not pass his physical exam.

Sources indicated that Williams’ physical exam highlighted several concerns. Over his three seasons with the Hornets, Williams has missed 60% of the games due to various injuries, notably to his back and foot.

Since the trade deadline had already passed, there was no chance to modify the trade to reflect any new medical information that the Lakers might have uncovered in their evaluation of Williams.

All players involved returned to their original teams but haven’t taken to the court yet; Knecht, Reddish, and Williams were all sidelined on Monday.

In a statement released on Saturday night, the Hornets expressed their enthusiasm about welcoming Williams back to the team.