The Los Angeles Lakers were anticipated to make significant moves at the NBA trade deadline this season, driven by a roster filled with expiring contracts. However, the reality fell short of expectations, as the team completed only one notable transaction, trading Gabe Vincent alongside a future second-round pick to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for shooter Luke Kennard. Although fans were hopeful for additional trades leading up to the deadline, no further deals materialized.
General manager Rob Pelinka faced challenges in offloading several players, with second-year guard Dalton Knecht emerging as a primary target in trade discussions. Reports indicate that the Lakers were actively shopping Knecht, but ultimately failed to find any interested parties.
The situation surrounding Knecht has been particularly disappointing, especially given his promising start after being drafted 17th overall in 2024 out of Tennessee. In a twist last season, he was traded to the Charlotte Hornets for Mark Williams, but that deal was rescinded, leading to his return to Los Angeles. Since then, Knecht has struggled to regain the confidence he displayed early in his career, and both the player and team recognized that a fresh start could be beneficial.
The Lakers opted to retain Knecht for the remainder of the season, hoping he can rediscover his form and contribute positively to the team. It’s worth noting that the Lakers exercised Knecht’s third-year rookie scale team option for 2026-27 earlier this season. While this decision reflects confidence in his potential, it may have complicated trade talks. Teams are typically more interested in acquiring expiring contracts for roster flexibility, and Knecht’s additional season under contract likely deterred potential suitors without the Lakers offering draft compensation, which they lacked.
Moving forward, there remains optimism that Knecht can turn his performance around and re-establish himself as a valuable asset for the Lakers, whether on the court this season or in future trade discussions.