Getting blown out by more than 50 points against another lottery-bound team—especially when only Brandon Miller was absent from the starting lineup—is a new low for the Charlotte Hornets. While another loss improves their chances of securing a top draft pick this summer, it’s alarming when players fail to show enough pride in a historically lopsided defeat.
LaMelo Ball was unrecognizable from the star who led his team to victory over the Los Angeles Lakers just two games prior. He managed only five points on 1-10 shooting and recorded just two assists.
Of course, Ball is bound to have an off night now and then, as has happened this season. But in games like Saturday’s, his teammates need to step up. One of those expected to contribute was Mark Williams, yet he remained largely passive against the Blazers. He had just two points in the first half and only reached 10 thanks to a late-game scoring stretch in garbage time.
Hornets Likely Had Concerns About Mark Williams’ Inconsistency
Williams’ performance on Saturday did little to reassure Hornets fans that keeping him was the right move after the trade deadline deal with the Lakers fell through. If anything, it reinforced why the front office was wise to try turning him into multiple assets—potentially three or even four, depending on how the 2030 pick swap would have played out.
Does Williams have game-changing talent? Absolutely—his dominant showing against Jaren Jackson Jr., a strong contender for his second Defensive Player of the Year award, is proof of that. Does he have the physical tools to be a star? Without a doubt. Lakers fans raved about his 7-foot frame and 9-9 standing reach—until, amusingly, they changed their minds after the trade was rescinded.
However, questions remain about his motor and mental toughness. Even Jusuf Nurkic and Moussa Diabate appeared more deserving of playing time than the Hornets’ starting center.
Only time will tell what Charlotte decides to do with Williams. Many believe the team should revisit trade options in the offseason. But if Williams wants to remain in Buzz City, he should treat the rest of the season as an audition—assuming he stays healthy.
His inconsistent performances haven’t won over many Hornets fans, and it’s hard to imagine he has strong support in the front office either. So, don’t be surprised if Charlotte makes another attempt to move him in the coming months.
