The Hornets' treasure trove of assets can be cashed in before next year's trade deadline in a move that puts them over the top. The bevy of first-round picks Jeff Peterson has acquired and retained can be used to make a home run-style swing to add to Charlotte's core of LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and whomever they draft in the 2025 lottery.

The Charlotte Hornets made a deal in the wee hours Thursday morning, trading away center Mark Williams to the L.A. Lakers. In return, the Hornets received Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish and a future No. 1 draft pick.

The Los Angeles Lakers are acquiring center Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets in a trade for rookie Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish and two draft picks, a person with knowledge of the deal tells The Associated Press.