After a tumultuous transfer period, Dalton Knecht has finally started making progress with the Lakers after a long slump.

The Los Angeles Lakers dominated the headlines during the February 2025 NBA trade deadline with one of the most significant and unexpected trades in league history. The franchise made a bold move, trading Anthony Davis—a key member of their 2020 championship-winning squad and an NBA Top 75 player—to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for their 25-year-old superstar, Luka Doncic. This seismic shift not only changed the trajectory of the Lakers but also sent shockwaves across the NBA landscape.

While the Luka Doncic trade has rightfully been the most discussed transaction of the season, it wasn’t the only major move the Lakers attempted. They also aggressively pursued a deal for Charlotte Hornets’ center Mark Williams, hoping to solidify their frontcourt by structuring a package around rookie Dalton Knecht. However, the trade fell apart, leading to an awkward situation where both players returned to their respective teams. Now, Knecht is looking to prove himself once again, and his recent performance suggests he might be an X-factor in the Lakers’ championship aspirations.

Lakers’ Gamble: Luka Doncic for Anthony Davis

The trade that sent Luka Doncic to Los Angeles in exchange for Anthony Davis was a defining moment for the Lakers. Davis, a dominant defensive force and a perennial All-Star, had spent six seasons in Los Angeles, helping the team secure its 17th NBA championship in 2020 alongside LeBron James. However, despite his undeniable talent, injuries and inconsistent availability had plagued Davis’ tenure.

By acquiring Doncic, the Lakers secured a player widely regarded as the most skilled young superstar in the league. At just 25 years old, the Slovenian sensation had already earned five All-NBA First Team selections and had established himself as one of the most electrifying playmakers in the game. His ability to score from anywhere on the court, combined with his elite passing, made him the perfect successor to LeBron James, who, despite still performing at an elite level, is nearing the twilight of his career.

The Failed Mark Williams Trade: What Went Wrong?

Alongside their pursuit of Doncic, the Lakers attempted to acquire Charlotte Hornets’ center Mark Williams, a talented 23-year-old big man who had shown promise as a defensive anchor. The Lakers saw Williams as a key piece to fill the void left by Anthony Davis, particularly in rim protection and rebounding.

To facilitate the deal, Los Angeles structured a package around Dalton Knecht, their promising rookie who had been turning heads with his sharpshooting ability. However, the trade ultimately collapsed due to last-minute disagreements on additional assets. As a result, both Williams and Knecht found themselves in an unusual and potentially awkward situation—returning to teams that had been prepared to move on from them.

Dalton Knecht’s Struggles and Redemption

For Knecht, the trade fiasco led to a rocky stretch of performances. The 6-foot-5 rookie had shown flashes of brilliance earlier in the season, even entering Rookie of the Year discussions after several impressive outings. However, in the immediate aftermath of the trade collapse, his production took a significant dip.

In the seven games following the trade deadline, Knecht averaged just 4.3 points per game while shooting a dismal 33.3% from the field and 31.8% from three-point range. His free-throw percentage also plummeted to 50%, a concerning drop for a player who had previously been one of the Lakers’ most reliable perimeter shooters. The uncertainty surrounding his role and the mental toll of almost being traded clearly affected his confidence.

However, in a crucial matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers, Knecht reminded everyone why he was so highly regarded. In what became his breakout performance since the trade deadline, Knecht scored 19 points on just 10 shot attempts, including a scorching 5-of-8 from beyond the arc. It was a performance that showcased his ability to space the floor and thrive alongside the Lakers’ new superstar duo of Luka Doncic and LeBron James.

Why Knecht Could Be a Game-Changer for the Lakers

With Luka Doncic and LeBron James at the helm, the Lakers’ offense revolves around playmaking, court vision, and creating open looks for their teammates. Both Doncic and LeBron are among the best in NBA history at generating high-quality three-point opportunities for their supporting cast. This is where Dalton Knecht’s skill set becomes invaluable.

Knecht’s ability to knock down perimeter shots at a high clip could be the missing piece in the Lakers’ quest for another championship. His recent struggles aside, he had previously showcased an elite three-point shooting touch, with multiple games scoring over 20 points off catch-and-shoot opportunities. His breakout game against the Clippers indicated that he might be regaining his confidence at just the right time.

In the modern NBA, floor spacing is crucial, especially for teams built around ball-dominant superstars. If Knecht can consistently deliver from deep, he will force defenses to stay honest, preventing them from packing the paint against Doncic and LeBron. This, in turn, will open up more driving lanes for the Lakers’ stars and create a more fluid offensive system.

Lakers’ Championship Aspirations with Luka Doncic

With Doncic now leading the Lakers, the franchise has once again cemented itself as a top-tier contender in the Western Conference. His ability to control the tempo, facilitate for teammates, and take over games in clutch moments makes him an ideal fit alongside LeBron James. While the departure of Anthony Davis leaves a void in defensive presence, the Lakers believe that their offensive firepower will compensate for it.

The emergence of Dalton Knecht as a reliable shooter could be a deciding factor in their playoff run. If Knecht can maintain the level of performance he displayed against the Clippers, he could serve as the X-factor that separates the Lakers from their competition. The presence of a deadly perimeter shooter who can capitalize on open looks will make it incredibly difficult for opposing defenses to contain the Lakers’ offensive arsenal.

Final Thoughts: Can the Lakers Capture Another Title?

The Los Angeles Lakers have entered a new era with Luka Doncic at the forefront, and while the trade came with risks, the potential rewards are astronomical. Doncic’s arrival signifies a shift in strategy, focusing on an elite offensive nucleus rather than a defensive anchor. The team’s ability to adjust and maximize their offensive potential will be critical in their championship pursuit.

Meanwhile, Dalton Knecht’s resurgence adds an intriguing subplot to this already fascinating season. If he continues to develop into the sharpshooter the Lakers need, he could play a pivotal role in their quest for banner number 18. With the playoffs approaching, all eyes will be on this revamped Lakers squad as they aim to prove that their blockbuster trade was not just a gamble—but a masterstroke that will define the future of the franchise.