So… the Lakers’ plan to trade for Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams? Yeah, that completely fell apart. They had a deal in place, but then Williams’ physical threw up some red flags, and just like that, the trade was rescinded. Now, the Lakers are back to square one, scrambling to add some much-needed size to their frontcourt. Is there any chance they just might still land Williams through the NBA’s buyout market? And more importantly, could this be the perfect solution to one of JJ Redick’s biggest headaches?

The buyout market serves as an opportunity for teams to acquire players whose contracts they terminated through early agreement. During the season, teams can use this lifeline to boost their title chances by acquiring additional talent. And if the LA side plans to go the Williams route, a mutual agreement between him and the Hornets about a buyout would provide the center the freedom to approve terms with any team in the league, including the Lakers—something that JJ Redick and the front office might seriously explore as they look for frontcourt reinforcements.

But here’s where things get messy. That rescinded trade? It’s now in arbitration. Joining the Rich Eisen Show, Dave McMenamin explained where things stand as of now with the two teams. “They’re in the process of petitioning the NBA to kind of have a ruling on this trade. And they’re trying to reverse it once again because they’re not satisfied with the Lakers’ explanation of failing the physical,” McMenamin shared.

If you’ve been following the story, you’d know that the Hornets are pushing back, arguing the Lakers had no right to back out of the deal. Hilariously enough, Rich had a question that I’m sure all of you would be thinking right now: “How does one team’s interpretation of a medical chart jibe with the league office? How do you rectify something like that?”

It was clear from Dave’s reaction that he was at a crossroads with that. But the man’s a seasoned reporter. And as such, he had the answer. “By my understanding, this will be almost like a mock trial that the NBA will put on and both teams will get to present their cases.” Well, they better suit up then, because Harvey Specter has retired!

The outcome of this arbitration, though, could have a huge impact on Williams’ future. If the Hornets win, Mark stays put, and a buyout becomes way less likely. But if the Lakers’ decision to void the trade is upheld, Charlotte might decide to cut their losses and buy him out, anyway. That would put JJ Redick and the Lakers in prime position to scoop him up. Assuming they’re willing to navigate the financial implications.

How JJ Redick and the Lakers Can Exploit NBA Loopholes to Land Mark Williams

If the Lakers do get a shot at Williams through the buyout market, there are some key rules to keep in mind. Teams that are above the first luxury tax apron—which the Lakers definitely are—aren’t allowed to sign players who were making more than the mid-level exception (about $10 million this season). But here’s the good news: Williams is still on his rookie contract, so that rule doesn’t apply to him. In other words, he’s fair game.

That said, it’s not as simple as just signing him. The Lakers must create an open position on their roster through a player waiver to acquire an additional person. The money they invest to attain this player would expand their substantial luxury tax burden. JJ Redick, now tasked with leading a championship-hopeful Lakers squad, must weigh whether adding Williams’ size and defensive presence is worth the financial squeeze.

The Lakers might succeed in making Williams a valuable addition if they manage to work out the financial details for his signing. According to his 7-foot height and defensive abilities, he would solve two major weaknesses for the Lakers by securing defensive rebounds and blocking opponent shots near the rim. His regular season stats? 15.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks. A presence like that would perfectly fit their requirements to defend in the paint—something JJ Redick has repeatedly emphasized as a major issue in their defensive schemes.

So, while this is all speculation for now, it’s a storyline worth watching. The NBA has a way of throwing unexpected curveballs, and sometimes, the best opportunities come from situations just like this. If Williams somehow ends up in a Lakers uniform after all this drama, it would be a wild twist in an already crazy season. And JJ Redick might just get the missing piece he desperately needs.