With Williams back into the fold, the Hornets are getting closer to having a full deck of cards again. When healthy, Williams once helped the Hornets rank in the top five for defensive efficiency. His ability to switch one through five could potentially change the outlook of how this team protects the paint or their pick-and-roll coverages.

This was about Mark Williams, the Charlotte Hornets’ center who’s become a forgotten man in a sense because of his injury history over the last 12 months. So, his return from a strained tendon in his left foot represented a significant milestone, and a mental pick-me-up for a team besieged with more than its share of player ailments.

The Charlotte Hornets center had just wrapped up his latest practice, continuing ramping up his activity levels as he prepares to return from a strained tendon in his foot, an injury that happened more than two months ago. And the expression on Williams’ face easily gave insight into his immediate thoughts.

The Charlotte Hornets have been without their two main centers, Mark Williams and Nick Richards, through the first 14 games of the season so far. Williams has yet to play a game in the 2024-25 season with his foot issues while Richards has appeared in five games.

Start time, an exciting injury report, betting lines, how to watch, and other details for the Charlotte Hornets vs the Philadelphia 76ers in an NBA Cup match.

Mark Williams is nearing a return to the lineup for the Charlotte Hornets. Officially listed as questionable for tonight's contest with the Philadelphia 76ers, Williams should make his debut sooner rather than later.