The Charlotte Hornets are in discussions with the NBA to explore potential challenges to the Los Angeles Lakers’ failed physical assessment of center Mark Williams, an ESPN report revealed on Monday night.  

Williams was part of a trade that would have sent him to the Lakers in exchange for rookie Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, a 2030 pick swap, and Los Angeles’ 2031 first-round pick. However, the deal was rescinded two days after the trade deadline due to Williams failing his medical examination.  

With the trade deadline having passed, the Hornets were unable to renegotiate the deal or adjust terms based on the Lakers’ findings. As a result, Charlotte is now weighing its next steps, including questioning the evaluation process or pursuing other resolutions through the NBA league office.  

Williams’ physical reportedly revealed multiple concerns, and injuries have plagued his young career. The 22-year-old center has missed 60% of the Hornets’ games over three seasons, dealing with significant back and foot issues. Despite this history, Charlotte appears to be disputing whether the Lakers’ assessment was justified in voiding the trade.   

Following the reversal of the trade, all players involved—Williams, Knecht, and Reddish—returned to their original teams but have yet to play. They were all ruled out for Monday’s games, leaving uncertainty about their immediate futures.  

In a statement on Saturday, the Hornets publicly embraced Williams’ return, saying they are “excited” to have him back. However, behind the scenes, the organization seems to be exploring ways to contest how the failed physical was handled.  

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen if the NBA will intervene or if the Hornets will find another course of action to address their grievances.