The Los Angeles Lakers have officially parted ways with former first-round draft pick Dalton Knecht, a decision reported by ESPN's Shams Charania. Knecht, the No. 17 overall selection in the 2024 NBA Draft, is expected to attract interest from several teams looking to add depth to their roster.
Knecht's Promise at Tennessee
Before making his mark in the NBA, Dalton Knecht showcased his talents at the University of Tennessee. During the 2023-24 season, he was instrumental in leading the Volunteers to an impressive Elite Eight finish while earning the title of SEC Player of the Year. His collegiate performance had the Lakers optimistic about his potential impact on their roster.
Mixed Performance in Los Angeles
Upon being drafted by the Lakers, Knecht was viewed as a player who could provide an offensive spark off the bench. In his rookie season, he averaged 9.1 points per game and demonstrated an ability to shoot from deep, connecting on 37.6% of his attempts from three-point range. One of his standout moments came during a game against the Utah Jazz, where he exploded for 37 points.
However, Knecht’s second season did not go as planned. His playing time dwindled significantly, dropping from 19.2 minutes per game in his rookie year to an average of just over 9 minutes in the 2025-26 season. This decline in playing time saw him appear in only 54 games, and by the end of the season, his scoring average plummeted to 4.2 points per game, effectively pushing him out of the Lakers' rotation.
Potential Destinations for Knecht
With the Lakers moving on from Knecht, discussions are already heating up regarding potential next steps for the young sharpshooter. One of the teams that could pursue him is the Charlotte Hornets. The Hornets had previously shown interest in acquiring Knecht during the 2024-25 season, exploring a trade that would have sent center Mark Williams to Los Angeles. However, that deal fell through when Williams failed to pass his physical.
Charlotte's roster has undergone some changes since that proposed trade, particularly with LaMelo Ball's move to Minnesota. Nonetheless, the Hornets still find themselves in need of shooting depth and could benefit from Knecht’s skill set off the bench.
Another team that may express interest is the Orlando Magic. After a disappointing end to last season, the Magic are looking to bolster their offense, and Knecht represents an appealing option. The team currently has one roster spot available, raising the possibility that they could use it to take a chance on the talented ex-Laker.
Impact on the Lakers
For the Lakers, the decision to waive Knecht reflects their shift in strategy heading into the new season. While the team initially hoped Knecht would contribute significantly, they opted to prioritize roster spots for players who better align with their current competitive goals. The team has undergone several changes and is focusing on building a stable squad capable of contending in the tough Western Conference.
Knecht's release does not diminish the potential he demonstrated during his time in college or his glimpses of talent in the NBA. His ability to score from beyond the arc is a coveted trait, and many teams would be more than willing to give him a chance to prove himself.
Looking Ahead
While Knecht’s time with the Lakers has come to an end, it is not the last we will see of the young player on the NBA stage. With several teams on the lookout for shooting talent, he is likely to find a new opportunity soon. The interest from teams like the Charlotte Hornets and Orlando Magic suggests that his journey in the league is just beginning.
As the league prepares for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on how Knecht navigates this transition, and whether he can once again find his rhythm and become the sharpshooting talent that many expected him to be.
