On Wednesday, the Los Angeles Lakers will open up their 2026-27 regular season when they host Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors.
Ahead of the season, teams need to finalize their rosters.
The Lakers announced (on Monday) that they had waived Dalton Knecht.
ESPN’s Shams Charania wrote: “The Los Angeles Lakers are waiving 2024 No. 17 pick Dalton Knecht, sources tell ESPN.”
Los Angeles Lakers Legend Magic Johnson Was Wrong
[
GettyEarvin “Magic” Johnson discusses the upcoming Los Angeles Lakers’ season at UCLA Health Training Center on September 20, 2018 in El Segundo, California.](https://heavy.com/sports/nba/los-angeles-lakers/nba-legend-magic-johnson-reacts-to-nuggets-game/attachment/earvin-magic-johnson-rob-pelinka-los-angeles-lakers-media-availability-26/)
It’s worth noting that Lakers legend (and Basketball Hall of Famer) Magic Johnson had high hopes for Knecht when he was drafted.
Johnson wrote (on June 27, 2024): “Laker Nation, outstanding pick last night by our Lakers selecting Dalton Knecht – I love it! Dalton is just what the Lakers need, a deadly 3-point shooter/scorer who is physically tough and has swag. He also played for a winning program and really good college coach at Tennessee, Rick Barnes! Dalton is a guy that has a chance to start or play a lot off the bench.”
Looking At Knecht
[
GettyDalton Knecht #4 of the Los Angeles Lakers lines up for a foul shot in the fourth quarter of their preseason game against the Golden State Warriors at T-Mobile Arena at T-Mobile Arena on October 15, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.](https://heavy.com/sports/nba/los-angeles-lakers/los-angeles-lakers-announce-roster-move-before-mavericks-game/attachment/golden-state-warriors-v-los-angeles-lakers-451/)
Enter Heavy's 2026 Pro Football Pick'em contest
Enter Heavy's 2026 Pro Football Pick'em contest