Mark Williams Trade: Grades & Analysis – Suns, Hornets Deals
The Phoenix Suns aggressively acquire Mark Williams, aiming too solidify their center position, while the Charlotte hornets pivot towards a rebuild, leveraging draft picks, including the No. 29 overall selection and a future first-round pick.This trade, analyzed by News Directory 3, marks a important shift in the NBA landscape, as Williams moves teams for the second time this year. The Suns assume risk, hoping to capitalize on Williams’ offensive upside. Understand how Williams’ health concerns influenced the deal and how the Hornets strategize for future success through the draft. Discover whatS next …
Suns Acquire Mark Williams; Hornets Rebuild with Draft Picks
Updated June 26, 2025
The Phoenix Suns have traded for Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams, securing a potential long-term solution at a position of need. In exchange, the Hornets receive the No. 29 overall pick in Wednesday’s NBA Draft and a 2029 first-round pick-the least favorable of the Suns’, Cavaliers’, and Timberwolves’ selections (top-five protected), according to ESPN.Vasilije Micić also returns to Charlotte after being traded to Phoenix earlier in the season.
This marks the second time in 2025 that Williams has been traded. A previous deal sending him to the Los Angeles Lakers fell through after he failed a physical, raising concerns about his long-term health. Despite these concerns,the Suns are willing to take the risk,banking on Williams’ talent to bolster their frontcourt.
Last season, Williams averaged 15.3 points and 10.2 rebounds in just 26.6 minutes per game for Charlotte. While his defense is still developing, his offensive upside is undeniable. However, his availability has been a concern, as he has played in onyl 106 of a possible 246 games over three NBA seasons.
The Suns also drafted Duke’s Khaman Maluach at No. 10 potentially securing two centers for the future and providing insurance against further injuries to Williams.Addressing the center position has been a priority for Phoenix since trading Deandre Ayton to the Portland Trail Blazers in 2023.
For the Hornets, this trade signals a shift toward rebuilding through the draft. Williams was eligible for a rookie extension this offseason, and Charlotte seemingly decided against committing to him long-term. With Nick Richards traded to Phoenix last winter, the Hornets lack an obvious starting center. Moussa Diabaté showed promise last season, but the team may look to add another center with the newly acquired No. 29 pick and future draft capital.
What’s next
The suns hope Mark Williams can stay healthy and solidify their center position, while the Hornets aim to find a cornerstone player in the upcoming NBA Draft to anchor their rebuild.