NBA Shocked as Lakers Find Anthony Davis Replacement So Soon Right After Major Trade

The Lakers shocked everyone by trading Anthony Davis to the Mavericks for Luka Doncic right before the NBA trade deadline. Fans were confused about how the Lakers would replace Davis, as it seemed like a big challenge. But the team didn’t waste time and quickly solved the puzzle by trading for Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams.

The Lakers made a big move by trading rookie guard Dalton Knecht, forward Cam Reddish, a 2031 first-round pick, and a 2030 pick swap to acquire Mark Williams. The NBA community was shocked by how quickly the Lakers found a center to address their needs.

Williams, a 7-foot talent from Duke, has been playing exceptionally well with the Hornets, averaging 16.0 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. His addition to the Lakers gives them more strength in the frontcourt alongside LeBron James and Luka Dončić.

Just In: The Los Angeles Lakers are trading Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, a 2031 unprotected first-round pick and a 2030 pick swap to the Charlotte Hornets for center Mark Williams, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/QGUwETssGd
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 6, 2025

Though Knecht showed promise as a rookie scorer, the Lakers didn’t want to take too many risks with him. Trading him for Williams was a smart move, and Lakers fans are excited that Rob Pelinka pushed hard to add an athletic big man to the team.

Fans praise Lakers’ decision to trade for Mark Williams

With Luka Dončić and LeBron James leading the way, adding Mark Williams makes the Lakers stronger and gives them a better chance to win a title this season. Fans and experts are happy with the move.

However, some fans are upset because they are comparing Bronny James to Dalton Knecht. Since Bronny hasn’t played as well as Knecht, they feel Knecht was a better choice to keep. So, some wish Knecht had stayed on the team instead of trading him for Williams.

WHAT?! No way they’re trading Knecht before Bronny 😭
— JBond (@jbondwagon) February 6, 2025

I like Dalton too smh but we needed a big. I wish all the success to Dalton Knect. i hope he has a great NBA career, but this is what im talking about, Mark William? Let's go!!!.
— 👑🐻 (@XKingxGrizzlyX7) February 6, 2025