The Lakers‘ first half of the 2024-25 season? A rollercoaster. Some nights, they looked like real contenders. Other times, they dropped games they had no business losing. With the trade deadline closing in, fans weren’t just hoping for changes—they were begging for them. Rob Pelinka didn’t just tweak the roster; he made two massive moves that could completely change the team’s path. We all know the first move, the second move is Mark Williams.

Pulling off a trade for Luka Doncic was already a massive shock, but the Lakers weren’t finished shaking things up. Just days later, they made another bold move, sending rookie Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, a 2031 unprotected first-round pick, and a 2030 pick swap to the Hornets. In return, they landed Mark Williams, adding much-needed size to their roster.

JJ Redick has been all praise for the 23-year-old. He said, “I’m just a big fan of his … We’re confident that we can take care of him and manage his body and he’ll be on the court for us,” as reported by Dave McMenamin. The 7- feet big man is expected to make his Lakers debut on Saturday against the Indiana Pacers.

Actually, the Lakers HC and Williams have a history. Before joining the NBA, Williams had a “mentor/mentee dynamic” with Redick at Duke, as ESPN’s McMenamin pointed out. That familiarity should make his transition smoother.

He’s in the middle of a breakout season, putting up 16.0 points, 9.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.2 blocks per game. Now, he gets to work with three top-tier passers Doncic, LeBron, and Austin Reaves. You know what that means—plenty of easy lobs and wide-open looks. The Lakers’ new-look lineup just got even scarier if Williams thrives in this role.

Others would’ve avoided Williams given his injury, but not the Lakers.

The Lakers aren’t concerned about Mark Williams’ health

The Lakers aren’t losing sleep over Mark Williams’ injury history. They’re convinced his best days are ahead. Sure, durability has been a question mark—he’s suited up for only 84 of 212 possible games (39.6%) so far. But according to ESPN, L.A. is confident in his medicals. His past foot and back issues? No surgeries are needed. That’s a good sign.

And when he’s healthy, there’s no denying his impact. The guy is putting up 15.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.2 blocks per game. Exactly the kind of big man the Lakers have been hunting. Imagine him catching lobs from Doncic and Bron—yeah, that’s going to be fun.

L.A. didn’t hold back to get him, either. They sent multiple draft picks, plus Dalton Knecht and Cam Reddish, to Charlotte. That’s a serious investment, but the Lakers clearly believe he’s the missing piece.

The goal is crystal clear: another championship but without sacrificing the future. Williams fits both plans. He gives them a defensive presence in the paint and a legit target for their playmakers.

Let’s be real—L.A. wouldn’t have gone all-in if they weren’t sure about his health. They’re betting big, and if Williams stays on the court, it could pay off hugely.