Dalton Knecht Emerges as Likely Lakers Roster Casualty

The Los Angeles Lakers may be gearing up to cut former first-round pick Dalton Knecht, according to a new report, as they shape the roster.

Visit sportnewz.click for more information.

Dalton Knecht’s future outlook

The Lakers currently have 16 players on the roster, and by the time the season rolls around, that number will need to be 15.

On the bright side for the Lakers, they have depth and a good roster-building choice, but the decision will be tricky.

Sep 28, 2026; El Segundo, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers player Dalton Knecht (4) during media day at UCLA Health Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Among the players on the chopping block is Knecht, who is expected to be the odd man out according to a report from Khobi Price of the California Post.

“Not a good sign for Knecht, whom multiple rival executives expect to be the odd man out as the Lakers look to trim their roster from 16 players on standard NBA deals to the league maximum of 15,” Price wrote in his report.

What do the Lakers think of Knecht?

Knecht was taken with the No. 17 overall pick back in the 2024 NBA Draft. However, midway through his rookie year, he was traded to the Hornets for center Mark Williams, but the trade was ultimately canceled.

Williams stayed with the Hornets, and Knecht returned to the Lakers, leading to an awkward reintegration period.

He struggled since then to look like the promising player that he once was.

Still, JJ Redick sees a player who is trying hard and wants to make the team and get minutes.

“First of all, he’s been a pro,” Redick said. “He’s been in the gym. Like he has since Day 1, he has worked his butt off all offseason. And he’s had a good three days of practice. So I don’t think his approach changes. I know he’s hungry to play and hungry to earn a spot in the rotation.”

Sep 28, 2026; El Segundo, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers player Dalton Knecht (4) during media day at UCLA Health Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Knecht shot 37.6% from deep his rookie year, then 34.2% the following season. As a shooter, he needs to start shooting more efficiently.

If he can find his confidence and start creating offense again, Knecht could beat the odds and stay with the team.

He has a role on the wings, but he will need to take it.

The post Dalton Knecht Emerges as Likely Lakers Roster Casualty appeared first on LA Sports Report.

Read full story at source