Blue Devil Country

Failed Physical Keeps Former Duke Basketball Star in Charlotte

Duke basketball products Cam Reddish and Mark Williams won't be trading places in the NBA after all.
Matt Giles|
Former Duke basketball center Mark Williams
Former Duke basketball center Mark Williams | Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

In this story:

Duke Blue Devils

On Saturday night, just a few days after the Los Angeles Lakers agreed to trade Dalton Knecht, Duke basketball talent Cam Reddish, a draft pick, and a draft swap to the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for NBA Blue Devil center Mark Williams, ESPN's Shams Charania reported that the trade was rescinded.

ALSO READ: Cooper Flagg Slip-Up Costs Duke in Crunch Time at Clemson

According to Charania, "Mark Williams' physical with the Lakers showed multiple issues." As a result, the Lakers (31-19) "failed him on the exam."

Williams, who has missed over half of Charlotte's games across his two and a half years as a pro due to multiple injuries, is averaging 16.0 points, 9.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.2 blocks through his 23 outings this season.

Meanwhile, Reddish is posting a career-low 3.3 points per game off the bench for first-year Los Angeles Lakers head coach and Duke legend JJ Redick.

"We are excited to welcome Mark back to our Hornets organization," the Hornets (13-37), who also employ former Duke basketball sharpshooter Seth Curry as backcourt reserve, noted on social media. “After the other team aggressively pursued Mark, we made the difficult decision to move him.

"We have always held great respect for Mark’s talent, work ethic, and character. We are thrilled to see him rejoin our roster as a dynamic presence at the starting center position. His return strengthens our team, and we look forward to the impact he will make on and off the court."

Stay tuned to Duke Blue Devils On SI for more Duke basketball news.

Published
Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of Duke Blue Devils on SI, North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining SI in 2022, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

Share on XFollow MattGilesBD
Home/Basketball