Tue Dec 09 02:10:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the information provided:

Phoenix Suns’ Mark Williams Aims for ‘Extra’ Edge Against Lakers After Failed Trade

LOS ANGELES – Phoenix Suns center Mark Williams is set to face the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday, December 1st, at Crypto.com Arena, a matchup carrying added significance after a previously agreed-upon trade to the Lakers fell through last season.

“It’s always a little extra, but I think we’re just focused on getting wins,” Williams said after practice on Monday.

Williams was expected to be traded to the Lakers for then-rookie Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, a 2030 pick swap and a 2031 first-round pick, but the deal was rescinded by the Lakers after Williams reportedly failed his physical. Williams stated he didn’t get the entire story but he’s “past it now”.

Having since been traded to Phoenix in the offseason, Williams is now a key part of the Suns’ frontcourt. After missing the last game with a sore calf he is set to play on Friday.

The Suns will look to Williams, who is averaging 12.9 points and 9.2 rebounds this season, to help them kick off a challenging four-game road trip against the Lakers (15-4). He has already faced the Lakers since the nixed trade, posting 10 points and nine rebounds in a 100-97 Charlotte win Feb. 19 in Los Angeles.

Williams acknowledged the Lakers’ strong play, particularly their scorers Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic. He emphasized the importance of ball security, limiting free throws, and controlling the boards. “They’re playing well right now. I think taking care of the ball. They’ve got some high-level scorers. Keeping them off the free-throw line, I think, will really be huge. Staying disciplined. Forcing them into tough twos and playing our own game. Win the possession game, rebound the ball, playing with pace.”

Following the Lakers game, the Suns face a tough stretch against Houston (13-4), Minnesota (12-8), and Oklahoma City (20-1) in the NBA Cup quarterfinals. Williams feels that “starting off the right note with the first one will be the biggest thing.”

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