As training camps kick off this week, excitement for the 2024-25 NBA season is building, particularly for the Charlotte Hornets and their developing young core. However, there’s growing concern for Mark Williams, a key young player, who is starting the season sidelined due to a strained tendon in his foot. He’s expected to be reevaluated in two weeks, meaning he’ll miss training camp and the early pre-season, which isn’t ideal.
Entering his third season, expectations for Williams are high, but injuries have plagued his first two years. He’s missed a total of 102 regular season games, partly due to a fluctuating role in his rookie season and largely because of a persistent back issue that kept him out for most of last year. It’s unfortunate, especially considering he averaged 13 points and 10 rebounds over the 19 games he did play last season.
The hope is that Williams can overcome his injury struggles and establish himself as the Hornets’ long-term solution at center. However, his ongoing health issues make it difficult for the team to rely on him. With modest expectations heading into the season, this pre-season injury adds another challenge for a team looking to make progress.
