In a blockbuster trade on the eve of the NBA draft, the Charlotte Hornets have agreed to send center Mark Williams to the Phoenix Suns in exchange for the No. 29 pick and a 2029 first-round selection. This move comes as the Suns selected center Khaman Maluach with the No. 10 pick, aiming to shore up their center position after the departure of Deandre Ayton. Williams, who had a solid season with career highs in points and rebounds, was almost traded to the Lakers following their acquisition of Luka Doncic, but the deal fell through due to a failed physical. Despite injury concerns, the 7-foot Williams remains a promising prospect heading into this summer’s contract extension negotiations.
The trade between the Hornets and the Suns adds an intriguing twist to the upcoming NBA draft, with Phoenix looking to address their center position by bringing in the talented Mark Williams. After an eventful season that saw Williams put up impressive numbers for Charlotte, including a potential move to the Lakers that didn't materialize, the young big man now joins forces with a Suns team aiming to bolster their frontcourt. As Williams prepares for a new chapter in Phoenix, fans are eager to see how he will contribute to a team with aspirations of contending for an NBA championship, adding further excitement to a league filled with offseason drama and intrigue.