What Happened to Mark Williams' Defense?
A film and analytical breakdown into Mark Williams' sub-par defensive season
On paper, Mark Williams had a breakout season. He appeared in a career-high 44 games, setting new personal bests across the board: 15.3 points, 10.2 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.2 blocks, and an impressive 80% from the free-throw line. At just 23 years with the longest standing reach in NBA history (9'9"), his development should be a reason for optimism in the Hornets’ front office.
So why did new general manager Jeff Peterson attempt to trade him to the Lakers?
Health likely played a role, but the more pressing concern appears to be his regression on the defensive end. Coming out of Duke, Williams was touted as an ideal rim protector, someone who could cover for LaMelo Ball’s defensive shortcomings. That vision hasn't fully materialized.