Dalton Knecht is now considered a negative asset and is likely to be traded before the February 5 deadline or over the summer, probably as a throw-in in a larger deal.
Los Angeles Lakers 24-year-old wing Dalton Knecht is in his sophomore NBA season, but it seems only a matter of time before he's traded.
Dalton Knecht
Dalton Knecht
Dalton Knecht
MIN: 12.5
PTS: 4.78 (46.11%)
REB: 1.56
AS: 0.36
ST: 0.22
BL: 0.25
TO: 0.44
GM: 36
According to NBA reporter Jovan Buha, Knecht is the player who may be on the move in the near future.
"I think he's on his way out, whether it's at this deadline or over the summer," Buha said. "I think eventually he'll be traded somewhere. I don't know specifically in the context of what the deal will be, but I think it'll likely be as part of a larger trade where he's more of a throw-in as sort of a sweetener.
"There was a point where you could have Dalton and a first-round pick, and that was really valuable. That point has long passed, and he is now viewed as a negative asset who, I think, is gonna have to work hard to turn around the trajectory of his career because right now, it is headed in a really bad direction."
Credit Getty Images via AFP - Scanpix
Knecht was nearly traded last February in a deal for then-Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams, who is now with the Phoenix Suns. However, that trade was rescinded due to concerns about Williams' health.
Since then, Knecht has struggled to find a consistent role under head coach JJ Redick.
The 17th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Knecht is averaging 4.8 points on 43.7% shooting from the field and 31.9% from three, along with 1.6 rebounds per game across 36 appearances (12.5 minutes) this season.
The Lakers are reportedly seeking a 3-and-D wing ahead of the Feb. 5 trade deadline, as their first half of the season has exposed a lack of athleticism and defense.
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