Dalton Knecht Reveals Secret Summer 2025 Improvement Plan: Can He Transform into the Next Lakers Star?

As the Los Angeles Lakers head into a pivotal offseason, the franchise faces some major decisions regarding its roster construction. With a clear need for a starting-caliber center or a more athletic wing, trade rumors have begun circulating—and one name that keeps popping up is rookie Dalton Knecht.

After being briefly included in a proposed trade for Mark Williams with the Charlotte Hornets—only for the deal to fall apart after Williams failed his physical—it’s evident that the Lakers see Knecht as a valuable asset. But will he be used as trade bait, or could he become a foundational piece in JJ Redick’s new system?

Dalton Knecht: More Than Just a Sharpshooter

Standing at 6-foot-6, Dalton Knecht entered the league as a 3-point specialist out of the University of Tennessee. But observers quickly noticed there’s more to his game than just outside shooting. Knecht showed flashes of being a three-level scorer, capable of cutting off the ball, finishing in transition, and creating his own shot in spurts.

In his exit interview following the Lakers’ playoff loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, Knecht expressed a strong desire to expand his skill set:

“Obviously I gotta get better all around, try to be an overall better basketball player,” Knecht said. “Just trying to adjust in my role and do whatever the team asks for to get ready for the summer.”

This type of attitude is exactly what head coach JJ Redick and the Lakers front office want to hear from a young player.

Defense: The Major Area for Improvement

While Knecht’s offensive skill set shows promise, his defense remains a glaring weakness. This season, he posted a 114.9 defensive rating, the worst among L.A.’s main rotation players. Even more telling, the Lakers were better defensively when he was off the floor, with a 111.4 defensive rating and a +3.0 net rating in his absence.

That said, defense can often be improved with experience, strength training, and better understanding of NBA schemes. If Knecht can at least become a neutral defender, his offensive potential may be enough to secure his spot in the Lakers’ future rotation.

Why the Lakers Might Hold Onto Him

Trading Knecht would be a difficult decision, especially given his low salary and upside. In a league increasingly dependent on 3-and-D wings, a player like Knecht—if developed correctly—could fill a vital role off the bench or even as a spot starter.

The Lakers have a history of letting young talent walk too early, only to watch them blossom elsewhere—Julius Randle, Brandon Ingram, and Kyle Kuzma all come to mind. Given the Lakers’ limited cap flexibility and aging stars, it might be smarter to invest in development rather than swing big on uncertain trade returns.

Trade Value: Too High to Ignore?

On the flip side, Knecht’s value on the trade market could be the key to unlocking a much-needed roster upgrade. If the Lakers aim to land a proven starting center or athletic two-way wing, Knecht’s inclusion might be necessary to get deals done.

Given his reputation as a shooter and flashes of offensive versatility, some rebuilding teams might see Knecht as a long-term starter—which increases his appeal in trade discussions. For a team like the Lakers, built to win now, Knecht may be seen as a luxury rather than a necessity.

JJ Redick’s Role in Knecht’s Future

With JJ Redick taking over as the Lakers’ new head coach, there’s potential for Knecht to thrive in a more modern, pace-and-space system. Redick, a former NBA sharpshooter himself, understands the value of movement, spacing, and efficient offense. If there’s anyone who could maximize Knecht’s offensive potential, it’s Redick.

Furthermore, Redick’s emphasis on player development could be exactly what Knecht needs to round out his defensive game and become a more complete contributor.

What’s Next for Dalton Knecht?

As the 2025 NBA offseason heats up, the Lakers are under pressure to make smart, strategic moves. The future of Dalton Knecht hangs in the balance. Will he be part of a trade package that brings another star to L.A., or will he earn his stripes as a key rotational piece in Redick’s system?

Only time will tell, but what’s clear is that Knecht’s journey is just beginning—and whether it’s in purple and gold or elsewhere, he has the tools to make an impact in the NBA.