Is Mark Williams playing tonight against the Golden State Warriors? Latest on Lakers center's status (Feb. 6)

The LA Lakers swung for another trade and added Mark Williams, a bonafide center, to address their need at the five. The news was reported by ESPN's Shams Charania and the framework of the trade sees LA deal rookie forward Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, a 2031 unprotected first-round pick, and a 2030 pick swap.

Williams' availability depends on how quickly the Lakers announce their latest acquisition. He is not expected to face the Golden State Warriors on Thursday and will most likely make his LA debut on Saturday at home alongside Luka Doncic.

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What does Mark Williams bring to the Lakers?

The Lakers needed a bonafide big to replace Anthony Davis, whom they traded to the Dallas Mavericks.

What works for LA is the fact that Williams is talented and athletic, averaging 16.0 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists. What works against them is his durability. The center has appeared in just 22 games this season due to knee and foot injuries.

If JJ Redick can nail his schemes, Williams can be the defensive anchor the team needs. He is a reliable rim protector and can be perfect in pick-and-roll situations for either or both LeBron James and Doncic. Per ESPN, he makes 74 percent of his shots.

The Lakers parted with Dalton Knecht, who was impactful for the team, and the draft capital thrown in means they've essentially emptied their clip for a player who provides promise.

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