Mark Williams Net Worth: How Much Money Does Lakers New Star Make?
The Los Angeles Lakers just made one of the biggest trade deadline moves in franchise history, shaking up their roster in a way that will be felt for years to come. While all eyes are on the blockbuster trade that sent Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Luka Doncic, another key addition shouldn’t go unnoticed—Mark Williams.
While Doncic is the clear superstar acquisition, Williams provides the Lakers with something they desperately needed—a young, talented, and athletic center who can anchor the paint for years to come. But what does he bring to the table, and how does he fit in with this new-look Lakers squad? Let’s dive in.
Mark Williams: A Rising Star at Center
Williams, 23 years old, was brought in from the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, a 2031 unprotected first-round pick, and a 2030 pick swap. This wasn’t a headline-stealing move, but it was an important one for the Lakers’ long-term outlook.
Standing at 7 feet tall, Williams was the 15th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft out of Duke University. The Hornets were high on him because of his rim-running ability and defensive potential. Now, the Lakers get to benefit from his athleticism, rebounding, and inside scoring, which make him a perfect fit for a team that now boasts two of the best playmakers in the game in Doncic and LeBron James.
What Williams Has Accomplished So Far
When Williams is healthy, he has shown flashes of being a dominant force in the paint. This season, when he’s played 25 or more minutes per game, he has averaged 19.9 points and 11.8 rebounds while shooting 61.3% from the field. Those are elite big-man numbers and a sign that he has the tools to be a long-term solution at center.
But the biggest issue with Williams has been staying on the court. Since entering the league, he has played just 85 games in three seasons due to injuries. This season alone, he has been limited to 23 games, raising concerns about his durability.
If the Lakers can keep him healthy, he could be a key piece of their future, playing alongside Doncic and LeBron in the short term and growing into a key figure of the franchise in the long term.
Why He’s a Great Fit With Doncic and LeBron
Williams pairs perfectly with Luka Doncic and LeBron James. Here’s why:
- Rim Protection & Defense: While he’s not the defensive monster that Anthony Davis was, Williams can still alter shots in the paint and provide a strong presence near the rim.
- Lob Threat & Fast Break Finisher: With Doncic and LeBron leading the offense, Williams’ ability to catch lobs and finish at the rim is a perfect match. Just throw the ball anywhere near the hoop, and he’ll go get it.
- Rebounding: The Lakers have struggled with consistent rebounding, and Williams’ presence inside should help them dominate the boards.
- Long-Term Potential: At 23 years old, he fits perfectly with Doncic’s timeline, making him a player the Lakers can build around in the coming years.
Personal Life & Background
Williams was born on December 16, 2001, in Norfolk, Virginia. His basketball journey started at Duke, where he played two seasons before entering the NBA draft. His older sister, Elizabeth Williams, is a WNBA player, so basketball runs in the family. Growing up, he was known for his humble and hardworking nature, traits that have carried over into his professional career.
Despite being a rising star, Williams has kept his personal life fairly private. He focuses heavily on basketball and spends a lot of time training and improving his game. His net worth as of 2025 is estimated to be around $10 million, thanks to his NBA contracts and endorsement deals.
Lakers’ Future Outlook With Williams
The Lakers made a statement with these deadline moves. Bringing in Doncic gives them an MVP-caliber player to pair with LeBron, but adding Williams solidifies their frontcourt for the future.
If Williams can stay healthy, he has all the tools to be a top-tier center in the NBA. His development over the next couple of seasons will be crucial for the Lakers’ long-term success.
The Big Question: Can He Stay Healthy?
This is the biggest concern for Williams and the Lakers. While his numbers are impressive when he plays, he has struggled with injuries since entering the league. The Lakers’ training staff will need to prioritize his health, ensuring he gets the proper recovery and conditioning to avoid long-term issues.
What This Means for the Lakers Moving Forward
With Doncic, LeBron, and Williams, the Lakers now have a balanced roster capable of competing at the highest level. If Williams stays on the court and continues to develop, this trade could be remembered as one of the most impactful moves in Lakers history.
For now, the excitement in Los Angeles is at an all-time high. The Lakers have their superstar playmaker in Doncic, a still-elite LeBron James, and a promising young big man in Williams. The stage is set for a deep playoff run and an exciting future.
Lakers fans, buckle up—this new era is just getting started.
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