Mark Williams is set to join the Phoenix Suns after spending the first three years of his career with the Charlotte Hornets. Although he displayed potential, Williams was unable to play in more than 50 games in any of his three seasons in Charlotte. The Suns are hopeful that Williams can find a way to stay on the floor at a more consistent level in Phoenix, but there is no denying his injury history.
"I think with Mark, our biggest, number one objective was to get his body to the point in terms of strength, mobility, flexibility, where he can perform consistently at the level that he's shown in an inconsistent manner during his first three years," Suns general manager Brian Gregory said recently, via PHNX Suns. "He’s been with us every day since July 1, his strength gains in the lower body have been off the chart. His work ethic on a daily basis, off the chart."
There is no question that Williams features upside. He's only 23 years old and has been a reliable center while on the floor. Across 44 games played during the 2024-25 season, Williams averaged 15.3 points, 10.2 rebounds and 2.5 assists per outing. He also shot over 60 percent from the field.
The realization the Suns are hoping to avoid is that Williams may not be able to stay on the floor. The Hornets were patient with Williams, but it became clear that injuries were unfortunately going to negatively impact him. Charlotte ended up agreeing to a trade with the Los Angeles Lakers, but the deal was rescinded after the seven-foot big man failed his physical.
In late June, the Suns acquired Williams via trade -- a deal that ended up coming to fruition and was not rescinded. Moving on from a 23-year-old center with a bright future was surely a difficult decision for Charlotte. He will be a restricted free agent next offseason, meaning the Hornets could have matched any offer. However, the Hornets seemingly made the decision to move in a different direction as they continue to build around LaMelo Ball.
The hope is that Williams can avoid injury and stay on the floor. If he accomplishes that feat, then perhaps he will play a pivotal role in Phoenix with the Suns. Injuries have been a problem to say the least early in his career, though. Overcoming injury concerns will be Williams' primary goal throughout the next few years.
The Suns are certainly hopeful that Williams will be able to stay on the floor and make a significant impact as they enter a rebuild as well.