Dalton Knecht Responds to LeBron After ‘Retirement’ Post Shakes Up Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers have entered what may be the most pivotal offseason in franchise history. With LeBron James continuing to defy Father Time and producing at an elite level, the clock is ticking for the front office to build a contending roster before the window shuts for good. But in order to accomplish that, the Lakers might have to make a difficult sacrifice — parting ways with rookie guard Dalton Knecht.

Dalton Knecht’s Future in L.A. Hangs in the Balance

The buzz surrounding Dalton Knecht has been palpable ever since the Lakers selected him in the first round of the 2024 NBA Draft. A talented scorer with a mature game and high basketball IQ, Knecht’s rookie season showed flashes of the offensive upside that made him a standout at Tennessee. However, his role on a win-now team has always been uncertain.

During the 2024 NBA trade deadline, reports surfaced that the Lakers were on the brink of trading Knecht to the Charlotte Hornets in a package for big man Mark Williams. The deal ultimately collapsed, but the message was clear: the Lakers were (and still are) willing to trade Knecht if it means improving the roster around LeBron.

With another opportunity to retool the roster this summer, many around the league believe the Lakers front office will revisit those trade discussions, and that Knecht is no longer untouchable.

“Me and ‘Bron Could Run It for Another Five, Ten Years”: Knecht on LeBron James

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Knecht remains upbeat — and apparently optimistic about his partnership with LeBron James. When approached by TMZ at the airport recently, the 24-year-old was asked about LeBron’s longevity and the possibility of continuing to play alongside him.

“He said he can play another five, 10 years,” Knecht said with a grin. “So, me and ‘Bron could run it for another five, 10 years. Why not?!”

While Knecht’s enthusiasm is admirable, the idea of LeBron James playing until age 50 is more fantasy than fact. Still, it highlights just how confident James remains in his physical condition — and how deeply Knecht wants to be part of his journey.

LeBron James: Still Elite at 40, but for How Long?

LeBron James just wrapped up his 22nd NBA season. The four-time NBA MVP remains a marvel, producing like a top-10 player well into his 40s. In the 2024-25 season, LeBron averaged:

• 24.4 points

• 7.8 rebounds

• 8.2 assists

• 1.0 steals

• 70 games played

His numbers are not just impressive — they’re historic. No player in NBA history has produced at this level, this late into their career. And yet, as remarkable as it is, the question persists: When does it all end?

Lakers’ Urgency to Win Now

The Lakers are fully aware that time is running out. They’ve tried retooling the roster around LeBron multiple times, with mixed results. The 2024-25 season ended in another early playoff exit, prompting renewed calls for bold changes.

To take the next step, L.A. must either:

• Swing a major trade for a second star or dominant big man, or

• Completely overhaul the depth of the team with high-level role players

In both scenarios, Dalton Knecht could be one of the first names floated in trade packages. Not because he lacks talent — but because he has real value, and because the Lakers need immediate impact, not future potential.

Dalton Knecht’s Trade Value: A Rising Asset

Ironically, Knecht’s solid rookie showing is exactly what makes him expendable. Teams across the league view him as:

• A ready-made shooter and slasher

• A mature player who can contribute immediately

• On a cheap rookie contract

That’s the type of asset rebuilding teams crave. Whether it’s a club like the Utah Jazz, Brooklyn Nets, or Charlotte Hornets, there will be interest in a player like Knecht if the Lakers want to sweeten a deal for a higher-caliber piece.

Given their previous flirtation with a Mark Williams trade, it’s clear the front office isn’t hesitant to move him.

What Should the Lakers Do With Knecht?

The decision ultimately comes down to roster construction strategy:

• If the Lakers keep LeBron and Anthony Davis, and want to go all-in on a title run, then Knecht likely becomes trade bait.

• If the Lakers start planning for life after LeBron, then Knecht could be part of the core alongside Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and possibly Max Christie.

But with LeBron James signaling a willingness to keep going, even considering another contract extension, it seems unlikely the team will pivot toward a rebuild. Which makes the answer pretty clear: Knecht may be gone before training camp begins.

LeBron’s Legacy Still Looms Large

No matter the direction the Lakers take, the franchise continues to revolve around LeBron James. He is not just the face of the team — he’s the centerpiece of its decisions.

His comments about playing another five to ten years may sound bold, but it speaks volumes about his confidence, discipline, and leadership. Even if that timeline is unrealistic, LeBron’s continued excellence has forced the front office to operate under the assumption that he is still capable of leading a title run.

And that means sacrifices will be made.

Other Storylines to Watch This Offseason

Austin Reaves Could Be on the Move

With rumors swirling about Desmond Bane-like trades, Austin Reaves is also a name that has gained traction. Reaves, who emerged as a fan favorite and clutch performer, could be the Lakers’ most appealing trade chip after Davis.

Would the Lakers consider pairing Reaves and Knecht in a blockbuster deal? It’s not out of the question.

Magic Johnson Still Influencing L.A.’s Roster?

A surprising twist emerged when Magic Johnson revealed he tried to stop the Lakers from letting Alex Caruso go in 2021. That decision still haunts the team, and Johnson’s involvement hints at the behind-the-scenes politics that continue to shape the franchise.

Luka Doncic to L.A.?

It’s speculative, but Magic Johnson’s comments about Luka Doncic suggest that Lakers Nation is already dreaming big. Could the Lakers be stockpiling assets — like Knecht — to chase a superstar down the road?

Unlikely, but never say never in Hollywood.

Final Thoughts: The Cost of Competing in the LeBron Era

As the Lakers’ front office prepares for a defining offseason, one truth stands out: building a contender around LeBron James comes at a price. Whether that price is cap flexibility, draft capital, or promising young players like Dalton Knecht, the Lakers must be willing to pay it.

Knecht’s days in L.A. could be numbered, but if his departure brings in a player who helps LeBron raise banner No. 18, it might be a sacrifice worth making.

Until then, Knecht remains a Laker — eager, optimistic, and ready to “run it” with LeBron… even if it’s not for the next decade.