The Los Angeles Lakers are prepared to include second-year guard Dalton Knecht in trade talks as the NBA deadline approaches on Feb. 5, according to the Los Angeles Times.
League sources told reporters Broderick Turner and Thuc Nhi Nguyen that the club is willing to pair Knecht with a second-round draft pick to facilitate a deal. The 23-year-old was selected 17th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft after an All-American season at Tennessee and was initially viewed as one of that draft’s biggest steals.
Knecht started his rookie campaign with promising offensive flashes but slipped out of head coach Darvin Ham’s rotation due to defensive struggles. A rescinded trade to the Charlotte Hornets last season added uncertainty to his role, and he has yet to secure consistent minutes in 2025-26.
When given extended time earlier this season, Knecht recorded several double-digit scoring performances and showed more willingness to take charges on defense. Even so, the Lakers are searching for veteran help on the wing and in the frontcourt, making the 6-foot-6 guard a movable asset.
Improving perimeter defense remains a priority for Los Angeles, but the front office is also evaluating center upgrades. Around the league, multiple big men are reportedly intrigued by the possibility of teaming with superstar guard Luka Doncic in purple and gold, a factor that could aid the Lakers in negotiations.
The trade deadline is set for Feb. 5 at 3 p.m. ET.
Source: Lakers Nation
