This could be awkward.
After a trade gone wrong, Charlotte Hornets centre Mark Williams was listed as probable in Tuesday's injury report to return to the court for the first time on Wednesday.
The opponent? The Los Angeles Lakers — the same team to which he was supposed to move.
Williams was dealt to Los Angeles during the trade deadline for a first-round pick, Dalton Knecht and Cam Reddish, but the Lakers rescinded the trade days later after Williams failed a physical.
The seven-foot centre last played on Jan. 24 and only rejoined the Hornets after the All-Star break. He has played in just 84 of a possible 212 NBA games over his three seasons due to back problems and other ailments prior to the rescinded trade.
In 23 contests this season, Williams is averaging 15.6 points and 9.6 rebounds per game.
Fellow starter LaMelo Ball was also listed as probable.
For the Lakers, Knecht has already returned to the court while Reddish is set to make his return following an eight-game personal absence.
After missing the All-Star Game with foot and ankle discomfort, LeBron James was listed as questionable.
Additionally, Lakers coach JJ Redick said Tuesday that Luka Doncic will play without a minutes restriction for the first time since joining the team via a blockbuster deal.
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