The Charlotte Hornets are reportedly in talks with the NBA to challenge the Los Angeles Lakers’ failed physical assessment of Mark Williams.
NBA insider Shams Charania broke the news, revealing that the Hornets are exploring ways to dispute the Lakers’ decision regarding the trade of Williams for Dalton Knecht and Cam Reddish.
“The Charlotte Hornets have been in contact with the NBA as they explore options to dispute the Los Angeles Lakers’ failed physical assessment of Mark Williams, sources tell ESPN,” Charania tweeted. “The Williams/Dalton Knecht trade was nixed Saturday, and now Hornets weigh avenues to challenge.”
On February 6, the Hornets agreed to trade the 23-year-old Williams to the Lakers in exchange for Knecht and Reddish. However, just two days later, on February 8, it was reported that the deal had been rescinded, with the Hornets unable to meet a portion of the trade agreement.
The decision has now returned Williams to the Hornets, leaving the team weighing their legal options and exploring the possibility of challenging the failed physical.
Williams, who has been one of the Hornets’ standout performers this season, has averaged 15.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in 25 minutes per game. His return to Charlotte brings an interesting twist, as the Hornets assess their next steps in the aftermath of the failed trade.
The failed physical has raised eyebrows across the league, with questions surrounding the Lakers’ assessment of Williams’ health. Despite his strong season so far, Williams’ medical evaluation appears to have caused concerns, prompting the Lakers to back out of the deal.
The Hornets are now left with the task of determining whether there is a valid reason to dispute the Lakers’ decision, given Williams’ impressive performance this season. While trade deals are often contingent on a successful physical, the rescinded trade has added another layer of intrigue to the situation.
