Paul George Reacts to Los Angeles Lakers’ Failed Mark Williams Trade: "Thank God It Didn’t Happen"

The Los Angeles Lakers were close to a major roster upgrade, but their plans fell apart at the last minute. Their trade for Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams collapsed, leaving them scrambling for alternatives. While some Lakers fans were disappointed, Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George saw it differently. On “Podcast P with Paul George”, the nine-time All-Star admitted he was relieved Williams wouldn’t be joining L.A., even as he acknowledged the shift in the Western Conference with Luka Doncic now in the mix. With Williams off the table, the Lakers quickly signed veteran big man Alex Len and placed their trust in Jaxson Hayes as their primary center.

Paul George didn’t hold back when discussing the failed Mark Williams deal.
“Thank God the Mark Williams [deal] didn’t go through,” George said. “Good luck in the West—it’s gonna be a nightmare when you play the Lakers.”

The Lakers had initially agreed to send rookie first-round pick Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, a 2031 first-round pick, and a 2030 pick swap to Charlotte in exchange for Williams. But medical concerns over Williams’ long-term health forced them to back out. While Williams has shown promise as an athletic rim-runner and efficient scorer—averaging 15.6 points on 58.6% shooting and 78% from the free-throw line this season—his durability remains a red flag. He’s played just 85 games in two and a half seasons.
With Williams off the table, Jaxson Hayes stepped into the starting center role. George acknowledged the shift, saying, “It’s going to be dynamic with Jaxson Hayes at the center position.”


Beyond the trade drama, George shifted his focus to the Lakers’ blockbuster acquisition of Luka Doncic.
“I think that was the reason Luka was brought over, so Bron can be off the ball a little more and not have to make all the plays,” he said. “I think it’s going to work. I think it’s definitely a ‘pick your poison’ sort of situation, it’s going to be tough.”
George believes that the combination of Doncic and James presents a “pick your poison” dilemma for defenses. With both players excelling in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking, opposing teams will be forced to allocate their best defenders to contain them, creating opportunities for their teammates.
Additionally, George highlighted Doncic’s effectiveness when playing alongside athletic centers. “What Luka is so great at playing with is athletic fives. That’s what unlocks his game and potential. His ability to get downhill and put pressure at the rim, is having an aerial five man,” he noted, adding that Jaxson Hayes could be a valuable asset in this regard. “It’s going to be definitely dynamic with Jaxson Hayes there at the center position.”
Despite missing out on Williams, George sees the Lakers as a serious contender. With Doncic and James orchestrating the offense, the team poses a major threat in the West.
“Both of those guys can set up the defense—you got to watch out,” George warned. “One of his greatest gifts is he can throw your timing off. There’s not many guys who can mess with him.”
Also Read: NBA Offseason Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers possibly interested in $78 million NBA Champion to solidify roster around Luka Doncic and LeBron James
Lakers fans might still wonder what could have been with Williams, but the team’s current roster offers an exciting opportunity. With Doncic, James, and Hayes leading the charge, L.A. is set up for an intriguing playoff run. All eyes will be on how this new-look squad holds up against the best in the West.