Insider Gives Update on Dalton Knecht’s Lakers Future

The Los Angeles Lakers attempted to trade Dalton Knecht during the trade deadline a year ago for Mark Williams. However, the Lakers rescinded the trade, bringing Knecht back in one of the more interesting scenarios over the past few years. 

The youngster was drafted in the first round by the Lakers, and the hope was for him to make an immediate impact. He had some struggles as an older rookie but ultimately played in 19.2 minutes per game and averaged 9.1 points. He shot an impressive 37.6% from 3-point range on 4.4 attempts per game, so there’s certainly something there. 

However, according to a recent report from Anthony Irwin, the Lakers have had conversations about Knecht over the past few weeks, and it’s possible that he could be traded. 

“As trade assets go, the Lakers still have Gabe Vincent and Maxi Kleber’s expiring contracts. They can still trade their own first-round pick in either 2031 or 2032. Dalton Knecht’s name has come up in plenty of trade discussions this summer after he was sent out in that infamously rescinded Mark Williams deal last season. Rui Hachimura is a popular target of other teams who call the Lakers, as well. Austin Reaves, even after turning down a max extension to remain with the Lakers, is not considered likely to be moved,” he wrote.

Lakers Continue to Look for Ways to Improve Team

The Los Angeles Lakers have been looking for multiple ways to improve their roster, recently signing Deandre Ayton to a deal. A former No. 1 overall pick, he hasn’t been great in the NBA, but that’s largely due to his lack of motor. 

Ayton has a lot of talent, and if he can figure things out with his effort, he should be in a position to succeed with the Lakers. 

Regarding other moves, Irwin added that the Lakers are interested in Miami Heat wing Andrew Wiggins. 

“In terms of those conversations, as previously reported, the Lakers have been in touch with the Portland Trail Blazers about Robert Williams and the Miami Heat about Andrew Wiggins. Sources say those talks hit snags, and then the Lakers’ focus was drawn to their pursuit of Ayton. They can pick up at any time, and Rob Pelinka speaks with Joe Cronin particularly often,” he reported.

What Heat Want for Andrew Wiggins?

The Wiggins interest from the Los Angeles Lakers’ perspective is real, but according to a report from Jovan Buha of The Athletic, the Heat are looking for Knecht and a first-round pick. He later added that he doesn’t believe that’s a good trade package, as it’d be too much to give up for Wiggins.

“I don’t know if Gabe [Vincent], [Maxi Kleber], Shake [Milton] & a first [round pick] gets you Andrew Wiggins,” Buha said. “I’ve reported/shared what I’ve heard, which is that [Miami] has been asking for a first & Dalton [Knecht], which is an overpay for Wiggins. I think they also want Rui Hachimura, too, because they want to remain competitive. Obviously, Rui is a better player than Gabe or Maxi. Miami’s asking price has to drop, as I’ve said before.”

Wiggins has proven throughout his career to be an above-average defender and he’s done some decent things offensively. He was better with the Golden State Warriors than he was with the Heat, averaging as much as 19.4 points in Golden State. If the Lakers don’t have to give up Knecht, or the first, it’s possible that could be a good trade. 

However, for both, they might be pushing it a bit.

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