League evaluators say Los Angeles Lakers guard Dalton Knecht is losing trade value after a difficult start to the preseason, raising questions about how much the organization could recoup for last year’s No. 17 overall pick.
Knecht shot 1-for-12 in the Lakers’ preseason opener against the Phoenix Suns on Oct. 3, 2025, at Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, California. The performance reinforced concerns that began during Summer League, where head coach JJ Redick said the wing had “overworked himself” following his rookie campaign.
According to Dan Woike of The Athletic, scouts and front-office executives “almost unanimously” doubt Los Angeles could secure a return equal to a mid-first-round selection. Several sources projected the Lakers might receive “multiple second-round picks,” while the harshest assessments suggested only a single second-rounder. One scout even labeled Knecht a “negative asset,” indicating additional pieces would be required to facilitate any trade.
General manager Rob Pelinka has acknowledged the possibility of in-season moves, but the Lakers have limited draft capital available. If the club pursues an upgrade, Knecht would likely need to be included—an option that grows more complicated if rival teams view him unfavorably.
Knecht’s rookie season flashed promise yet was inconsistent; he periodically exited Redick’s rotation and was briefly traded to the Charlotte Hornets before that deal was rescinded. Summer League struggles further dimmed his stock.
The 23-year-old showed improvement in the Lakers’ second preseason game, recording 12 points, six rebounds and three assists against the Golden State Warriors. Knecht said afterward that he is “starting to get his legs underneath” him.
Whether that progress is enough to change external perceptions remains uncertain as the Lakers weigh roster decisions ahead of the regular season.
Source: Lakers Nation
