The Phoenix Suns are not waiting around to reshape their roster after a disappointing 2024-25 NBA season. Following the blockbuster trade that sent Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets, the Suns made another significant move on Wednesday night.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Charlotte Hornets have traded center Mark Williams to the Suns in exchange for the No. 29 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and a 2029 first-round pick. Additionally, Charlotte receives Serbian guard Vasilije Micic as part of the deal.
BREAKING: The Charlotte Hornets are trading center Mark Williams to the Phoenix Suns for the No. 29 pick tonight and a 2029 first-round pick, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/a6eDDn5aE6
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 26, 2025
The Hornets wasted no time putting their new assets to use by selecting forward Liam McNeely with the 29th pick. Meanwhile, the Suns added more size earlier in the night by drafting Khaman Maluach with the No. 10 overall selection.
Williams’ availability has been a concern during his three seasons with Charlotte. Yet, his on-court production is undeniable when healthy. Last season, he played just 44 games but averaged an impressive 15.3 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game.
Fans Roast Los Angeles Lakers After Suns Secure Mark Williams
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Williams was close to being traded. Last season, the center was nearly dealt to the Los Angeles Lakers, but the move collapsed after he failed his physical with the team. The failed medical led many to question whether Williams would remain a viable trade asset going forward. Fast-forward a few months, and he’s now at the center of a two-pick deal.
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News of the Suns landing Williams ignited a frenzy on social media, particularly among fans who couldn’t resist dragging the Los Angeles Lakers into the conversation.
One fan sarcastically wrote, “Lakers fumbled again.”
Lakers fumbled again
— Sporting Zealot (@SportingZealot) June 26, 2025
“WOWWA LMFAOO BETTER DESTINATION THAN THE LAKERS LMFAOO,” another user commented.
WOWWA LMFAOO BETTER DESTINATION THAN THE LAKERS LMFAOO
— 𝗙𝗶𝗴𝘀 ⛈️ (@30_Dynasty) June 26, 2025
One fan questioned the dramatic shift in Williams’ value, writing, “So he went for one first and a swap, that Lakers rescinded because the medicals were so bad, then goes for 2 firsts a few months later?”
So he went for one first and a swap, that Lakers rescinded because the medicals were so bad, then goes for 2 firsts a few months later?🤔
— ⭐️🚨 (@HoodiiLuka) June 26, 2025
“Lakers #1 Public Enemy,” another post read.
Lakers #1 Public Enemy
— 𝔽𝕒𝕤𝕤𝕒 ❤️🔥 (@MiamisOG) June 26, 2025
“All of a sudden he’s healthy but wasn’t for the Lakers? Lmao,” one fan joked.
All of a sudden he’s healthy but wasn’t for the lakers ? Lmao
— John (@iam_johnw) June 26, 2025
The Suns are taking a gamble by investing in Williams despite his injury history. But if he stays on the court, he could be exactly the kind of physical, rim-protecting presence Phoenix has lacked in recent years.
Also Read: Lakers Emerge As Favorites To Land Three-Time All-Star Center In Potential Trade
