Charlotte Hornets rookie Mark Williams began the 2022-23 season gaining confidence as a pro, putting up big numbers in the G League. Then the 7-foot-1, 240-pounder, who went No. 15 overall at the NBA Draft following consistent growth across two Duke basketball campaigns, replaced Nick Richards as Charlotte's backup center.
And in light of his latest outing, one aspect of the Hornets' looming decisions in the trade market should be simple: view Williams as the franchise's future in the paint no matter what.
The 21-year-old tied his career-high with 17 points in Wednesday night's 122-117 win at the Houston Rockets, adding six boards and five blocks during only 19 minutes off the bench.