NBA Teams Learned Lesson from Failed Mark Williams Trade

The Charlotte Hornets' awkward situation at last year's trade deadline, when Mark Williams' trade with the Los Angeles Lakers was rescinded due to a failed physical, seemingly prompted teams to complete trades earlier this year.

A front office person suggested to The Athletic that the issues with physicals last year "freaked everyone out," leading to more deals being finalized well before the deadline.

The Hornets had to take back Williams and return significant assets, while the Lakers struggled with big man depth after the deal fell through.

In 2026, the Hornets acquired Coby White from the Chicago Bulls, completing their biggest move of the season early on.

Coby White to the Hornets:: Charlotte acquired White from the Bulls, signaling their main move was complete.

Anthony Davis to the Wizards:: In a surprising move, the Dallas Mavericks sent Anthony Davis to Washington.

Q: Why were there so many trades happening before the deadline?

Q: What did the Hornets get for Mark Williams?

The timing of NBA trades is often influenced by previous years' events, such as failed physicals derailing deals.

Teams are increasingly proactive in completing trades early to avoid last-minute complications.

The Hornets learned from past experiences and completed their major move of acquiring Coby White well before the deadline.