Dalton Knecht could ‘sneak’ into the Lakers’ starting lineup next season – but in what position?

During the 2024-25 NBA season, the Los Angeles Lakers made a bold attempt to acquire Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets. The proposed deal involved sending Dalton Knecht, their promising young guard, in exchange for the defensive-minded center. However, the trade was ultimately canceled due to medical concerns stemming from Williams’ physical.

Left with no choice, the Lakers continued the season with Jaxson Hayes anchoring the frontcourt. That failed trade not only revealed the team’s interest in upgrading at center but also raised questions about how the Lakers truly value Dalton Knecht in their long-term plans.

Lakers’ Lack of Confidence in Knecht

The failed trade sent a clear message: the Lakers weren’t fully sold on Knecht’s future. Although he returned to the team and stayed professional, fighting for minutes in a crowded rotation, it was apparent that his role was uncertain.

Knecht’s minutes dwindled, and by the time the playoffs rolled around, he was barely in the mix. In fact, his absence during crucial postseason moments signaled that the Lakers’ coaching staff didn’t quite trust him to deliver in high-stakes situations.

Dalton Knecht on the Outside Looking In

According to Lakers insider Jovan Buha, Dalton Knecht may end up as the eighth man in the rotation—at best—next season. That’s a steep drop for a player who, at the beginning of the year, was being hailed as a breakout rookie.

Knecht flashed scoring potential early in the season, but inconsistency and defensive concerns likely led the Lakers to explore moving him. At just 23 years old, the Tennessee product has plenty of upside, but the Lakers’ championship timeline doesn’t allow much room for development.

Knecht’s Strengths and Weaknesses

Statistically, Dalton Knecht had a respectable rookie campaign, averaging:

• 9.1 points per game

• 2.8 rebounds

• 0.8 assists

• 46.1% from the field

• 37.6% from three-point range

These are solid numbers for a rookie wing, especially one who didn’t receive consistent minutes. Offensively, Knecht brings floor spacing, shot creation, and above-average efficiency, but the defensive end remains a concern. While he’s not a liability, he isn’t the lockdown perimeter defender that a team like the Lakers, in win-now mode, might prioritize.

Lakers Prioritizing Defense and Experience

With LeBron James nearing the end of his legendary career and Anthony Davis in his prime, the Lakers are focused on winning a championship in the next 1–2 seasons. That means every player in the rotation needs to contribute meaningfully on both ends of the floor.

As of now, Dalton Knecht doesn’t fit that mold entirely. His offense is promising, but the Lakers need two-way players, especially when it comes to guarding elite perimeter threats in the Western Conference.

Names like Klay Thompson, Devin Booker, and Jamal Murray will always be in the mix come playoff time, and the Lakers can’t afford to carry anyone who might be targeted defensively.

What’s Next for Dalton Knecht?

Given how close he came to being traded once, it wouldn’t be a surprise if the Lakers try to move Knecht again—either during the offseason or before next season’s trade deadline. His youth, upside, and shooting ability could be appealing to rebuilding teams looking for long-term scoring threats.

However, if the Lakers don’t find a trade partner, Knecht will need to fight hard in training camp to carve out a rotation spot. He’ll be competing with players like:

• Max Christie

• Cam Reddish

• Taurean Prince (if re-signed)

• Any new veterans signed during free agency

Best-Case Scenario: A Trusted Bench Scorer

If Dalton Knecht improves his defense and builds chemistry with LeBron and AD, his ceiling on this team might be that of a reliable scoring spark off the bench—someone who can stretch the floor and keep the offense flowing when the stars sit.

Think a young Kyle Korver or Malik Beasley-type role. That kind of shooting off the bench can be valuable in today’s NBA, but it requires defensive awareness, hustle, and quick decision-making—areas where Knecht still needs refinement.

Worst-Case Scenario: Lost in the Depth Chart

If he doesn’t take a step forward defensively or if the Lakers make more moves to load up on veterans, Knecht could fall out of the rotation entirely. That would mean limited development and likely becoming a trade chip or two-way player before the end of the season.

The Lakers simply don’t have the luxury of long-term projects, especially with the pressure to win another title before LeBron retires.

Conclusion: Dalton Knecht’s Window Is Narrow

The 2025-26 NBA season could define Dalton Knecht’s trajectory in the league. Will he prove to be a legitimate piece of the Lakers’ future or end up as a trade asset for a contender that needs veteran help?

The tools are there—shooting, size, and a solid basketball IQ—but he must show the organization that he can be trusted in big moments, especially on defense.

For now, Knecht remains a question mark in a Lakers rotation filled with urgency, stars, and championship expectations.