Charlotte Hornets release official statement on failed trade for former Tennessee Vols star Dalton Knecht
The most shocking basketball news on Saturday wasn't that the Duke lost to Clemson or that Auburn lost to Florida. Instead, it was the news that the Charlotte Hornets' trade with the Los Angeles Lakers for former Tennessee Vols star Dalton Knecht was "rescinded". According to reports, the trade fell through over concerns that arose […]
The most shocking basketball news on Saturday wasn't that the Duke lost to Clemson or that Auburn lost to Florida.
Instead, it was the news that the Charlotte Hornets' trade with the Los Angeles Lakers for former Tennessee Vols star Dalton Knecht was "rescinded".
According to reports, the trade fell through over concerns that arose during center Mark Williams' physical. Williams, a former Duke standout, was heading from Charlotte to Los Angeles in the deal.
As a result, Knecht will remain with the Lakers through at least the end of the current NBA season (the NBA trade deadline passed last week).
The Hornets released an official statement on the failed trade on Saturday night.
"We are excited to welcome Mark back to our Hornets organization. After the other team aggressively pursued Mark, we made the difficult decision to move him. We have always held great respect for Mark's talent, work ethic, and character. We are thrilled to see him rejoin our roster as a dynamic presence at the starting center position. His return strengthens our team, and we look forward to the impact he will make on and off the court."
What a bizarre ending to a wild week of trades in the NBA.
As for Knecht, he was set to see more playing time with the Hornets. But staying in Los Angeles will allow Knecht to spend the last part of the season playing alongside Luke Doncic and LeBron James. That's an experience that will be invaluable for the former Volunteers star.
