Last February, it was clear that Dalton Knecht and the Los Angeles Lakers had a contentious relationship. For fans, the reason was clear.
The Lakers had agreed, publicly, to trade Knecht and a first-round pick to the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for rim-protector Mark Williams. However, Williams failed a physical, and the trade was quickly rescinded.
Everyone around the league knew that the Lakers did not see Knecht as a long-term piece, and he was heading back to the locker room after the awkward moment.
Heading into his second season, Knecht could be traded at any moment, although for now he remains on the Lakers, and he addressed the trade with reporters at media day.
GettyCHICAGO, ILLINOIS – MARCH 27: Kevin Huerter #13 of the Chicago Bulls drives to the basket against Dalton Knecht #4 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the second half at the United Center on March 27, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Dalton Knecht Breaks Silence About Lakers’ Trade
Mark Williams would be traded to the Phoenix Suns this offseason, joining former frontcourt mate Nick Richards. Knecht, however, is still on the team that tried to trade him.
While facing the Los Angeles press during September 29th’s media day, Knecht kept it professional.
“There’s no hard feelings,” he said to reporters. “That’s something that we talked about when I first got back. There’s no hard feelings, and it’s in the past. Who cares? I’m ready to just go hoop play for the Lakers play in front of a great crowd.
Knecht added that he is “happy” to still be in Los Angeles. There is hope that the second-year forward will be able to improve his defense and remain a steady shooting threat. JJ Redick, after a busy summer, gave him some praise, and he should get a chance to play himself into a bigger role.
Los Angeles Lakers Need Wing Help
On paper, Knecht should be exactly the type of player the Lakers need. With ball-dominant scorers like Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves needing the charge, the Lakers need players who can stand in a corner and knock down shots.
Even after a disappointing summer league, Knecht is one of the best shooters from his draft class. With Deandre Ayton holding down the paint, Knecht should be able to slot into the rotation alongside Rui Hachimura and Jake LaRavia.
If he manages to catch fire early, he could emerge as a key player, not just a backup off the bench.
For now, he is expected to be the tenth or 11th man, ahead of only Bronny James and rookie Adou Thiero, although with his shooting acumen, he could quickly rise up the depth chart.
As the Lakers continue to build around Doncic, an efficient player on an affordable rookie salary would be a massive asset for Los Angeles. It’s just up to Knecht to prove that the past is behind him and he can be that guy.
Dalton Knecht Breaks Silence on Awkward Los Angeles Lakers Trade