Dalton Knecht expressed his disappointment when Finney-Smith left LA. “Losing Doe really sucks…”

Los Angeles, CA — The Los Angeles Lakers are once again at the center of offseason drama—and this time, rising guard Dalton Knecht is stepping into the spotlight with a message that reflects both disappointment and determination.

Just days after veteran forward Dorian Finney-Smith stunned fans by signing a four-year, $53 million contract with the Houston Rockets, Knecht addressed the media during Summer League practice, weighing in on the Lakers’ major roster shake-up.

“Losing Doe sucks,” Knecht admitted candidly. “But at the end of the day, it just happens.”

Finney-Smith, who only spent a single season in Los Angeles, quickly became a fan favorite and a dependable presence on both ends of the floor. His ability to knock down corner threes and defend multiple positions made him a crucial piece in the Lakers’ rotation last season. His departure now leaves a noticeable hole on the wing, and the Lakers are scrambling to respond.

Lakers Scramble to Regroup After Key Loss

The front office moved swiftly to begin patching the hole, agreeing to bring in Jake LaRavia from the Sacramento Kings in free agency. While LaRavia isn’t a direct replacement for Finney-Smith’s experience or defensive pedigree, he offers size, youth, and untapped potential.

The Lakers’ offseason, marked by uncertainty and unpredictability, has left fans both anxious and hopeful. The loss of Finney-Smith adds to the list of roster changes following the team’s disappointing playoff exit in April, where they were eliminated in the first round.

Dalton Knecht: Rising Voice in a Changing Locker Room

At just 24 years old, Dalton Knecht is quickly becoming a respected voice inside the Lakers’ locker room. After an up-and-down rookie season, the former No. 17 overall pick from the 2024 NBA Draft has embraced a bigger leadership role this summer.

Knecht’s comments show a growing maturity, acknowledging the emotional toll of losing a teammate while turning his attention toward the future of the franchise.

“We’re all professionals,” Knecht said. “You build chemistry and bonds, and then sometimes guys go in different directions. That’s the league. What matters is how we move forward.”

And move forward he will. Knecht is expected to play a key role in the Lakers’ Summer League squad while solidifying his place in the regular-season rotation ahead of training camp.

A Rookie Season Full of Promise—and Trade Rumors

Knecht’s first year in the league wasn’t perfect, but it was more than promising. The 6-foot-6 guard averaged 9.1 points per game, shot 37.6% from beyond the arc, and appeared in 78 games, ranking among the top rookies in three-pointers made.

His sharpshooting, high motor, and willingness to learn quickly endeared him to the Lakers’ coaching staff, and whispers around the league suggest several teams have expressed trade interest in the Tennessee product.

However, sources close to the Lakers say the front office is reluctant to move Knecht, viewing him as a core piece of their future—especially given the uncertainty around the roster’s veteran core.

“Dalton brings shooting, energy, and a winning attitude,” said one Lakers assistant. “He’s exactly the kind of player we need as we rebuild the supporting cast.”

Can Jake LaRavia Help Fill the Void?

One of the big questions going forward is whether Jake LaRavia can step into the role vacated by Finney-Smith. The 22-year-old forward showed flashes of two-way ability in limited action with Sacramento and Memphis but has yet to fully find his footing in the NBA.

Still, his 6’7″ frame, versatility, and untapped offensive upside make him a compelling addition. If he can stretch the floor and stay engaged defensively, he may prove to be a valuable rotation piece alongside Knecht and the returning core.

“We’ve got some new guys coming in, and I’m excited to work with them,” Knecht said. “It’s a fresh start for a lot of us.”

Lakers Still in Limbo With the Roster

Despite the recent additions and departures, the Lakers’ offseason blueprint remains incomplete. Questions remain about the futures of key names like Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Jarred Vanderbilt. Trade rumors continue to swirl, and the front office is reportedly keeping tabs on several veterans still available in free agency.

The loss of Finney-Smith may not have been part of the Lakers’ original plan, but it has become a defining moment in their summer narrative—a reminder that nothing is guaranteed in today’s NBA.

And for young players like Dalton Knecht, that’s both a challenge and an opportunity.

The Road Ahead for Knecht and the Lakers

With training camp on the horizon, Dalton Knecht finds himself in a position to thrive. Whether he remains a rotation sniper, ascends to a sixth-man role, or continues to earn the trust of the coaching staff, his development will be a major storyline this season.

And with his mindset—focused, realistic, and team-first—it’s clear he understands what it means to wear the purple and gold.

“We’ve got work to do,” Knecht said. “But I’m ready.”

As the Lakers regroup after the loss of Dorian Finney-Smith, one thing is clear: Dalton Knecht isn’t shying away from the moment.

Instead, he’s embracing it.