Mark Williams Provides Edge for Lakers Post-Rescinded Trade
Mark Williams, the Phoenix Suns’ center, is eager to demonstrate that the Charlotte Hornets made a mistake by trading him. Following a rescinded trade to the Los Angeles Lakers before last season’s deadline, Williams looks forward to their upcoming matchup on December 1 at the Crypto.com Arena.
Mark Williams’ Road to Redemption
Williams acknowledged that he carries a “little extra” motivation for the game against the Lakers. Despite this, his primary focus remains on securing victories for his team. Recently, he returned to action after missing a game against the Denver Nuggets due to a sore right calf. This injury has interrupted his participation in back-to-back games this season.
Current Performance and Team Status
This season, Williams has played in 17 games, starting in 14, and is averaging:
- 12.9 points per game
- 9.2 rebounds per game
- 25.4 minutes on the court per game
The Suns currently hold a 12-9 record. Notably, they have struggled in the second games of back-to-backs, going 1-3 without Williams. The only win came against the Indiana Pacers, while their losses included tough games against the Denver Nuggets and the Houston Rockets.
Impact of the Rescinded Trade
The trade, which was meant to send Williams to the Lakers, involved the Hornets receiving rookie Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, a 2030 pick swap, and a 2031 first-round pick. Williams revealed that he wasn’t provided with much clarity regarding the trade’s cancellation, but he has since moved on.
Upcoming Challenges for the Suns
As they gear up for the Lakers, the Suns are facing a challenging stretch. Their next four games include tough opponents such as:
- Houston Rockets (13-4)
- Minnesota Timberwolves (12-8)
- Oklahoma City Thunder (20-1), the defending NBA champions
Williams emphasized the importance of winning the possession game and rebounding effectively against high-scoring teams like the Lakers, who currently have a strong record of 15-4.
The Suns look forward to making a mark in this crucial stretch, beginning with their match against Los Angeles. Williams is determined to put his best foot forward as he seeks to prove his worth on the court.
