Which Team Should Contact the Lakers About Dalton Knecht This Summer? The Most Important Trade Asset of LA!

In the volatile world of the NBA, where young talents are simultaneously praised and traded, Dalton Knecht has emerged as the Los Angeles Lakers’ most intriguing trade asset. After a rollercoaster rookie campaign in the 2024-25 NBA season, Knecht now finds himself at the center of potential trade talks that could reshape both his career and the Lakers’ future.

Dalton Knecht’s Impact in LA

The Lakers selected Dalton Knecht with the 17th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, and while much of the media spotlight was on Bronny James, it was Knecht who provided the most consistent rookie production for LA. Averaging 37.6% from beyond the arc on 4.4 attempts per game, Knecht quickly established himself as a lethal floor spacer—a rare and valuable commodity in today’s league.

Despite showing promise during the regular season, Knecht’s role significantly diminished in the 2025 NBA Playoffs, appearing in just two games and scoring only five total points. This playoff benching, coupled with the Lakers’ persistent roster needs—particularly at center—has thrown Knecht’s future with the team into doubt.

According to Lakers insider Jovan Buha, Knecht is currently viewed as, at best, an “eighth man” heading into the 2025-26 season. That label puts him firmly on the trade block as the Lakers eye upgrades to keep pace in a stacked Western Conference.

So, which teams should be calling Rob Pelinka about Dalton Knecht this summer? Let’s break down the top suitors.

Orlando Magic: A Match Made in Spacing Heaven

If there’s one team that desperately needs shooting, it’s the Orlando Magic. Ranking dead last in 3-point percentage (31.8%) and near the bottom in offensive rating (108.9, 27th in the NBA), the Magic are crying out for a sniper like Knecht.

Why it works:

• The Magic’s core is loaded with size and athleticism but lacks perimeter shooting.

• Knecht would instantly bolster their bench scoring and stretch the floor for Franz Wagner, Paolo Banchero, and Jalen Suggs.

Trade scenario:

• Orlando could package Goga Bitadze (a young, defensive-minded big), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (a 3-and-D veteran with championship experience), and future second-rounders for Knecht.

• Bitadze gives the Lakers a serviceable backup center, and KCP fits well in any lineup next to Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis.

Knecht’s smooth jumper would offer Orlando something it sorely lacked in 2025—a consistent offensive spark from the perimeter.

Brooklyn Nets: Claxton for Knecht?

The Brooklyn Nets are another ideal trade partner. With Nicolas Claxton heading into unrestricted free agency, the Nets might prefer to do a sign-and-trade deal, especially if Claxton’s next destination is Los Angeles.

Why it works:

• The Nets finished 28th in offensive rating and 25th in 3-point shooting last season. Like Orlando, they need offensive help—urgently.

• Knecht’s movement shooting and catch-and-shoot capabilities could slot in perfectly next to Cam Thomas and Mikal Bridges, giving the Nets a more modern offense.

Trade scenario:

• A sign-and-trade involving Claxton and salary filler (possibly Dorian Finney-Smith) for Knecht and a protected first-round pick.

• Claxton gives the Lakers a rim-running, switchable defensive anchor—the exact mold that thrives next to Doncic and Davis.

For the Nets, Knecht represents a low-cost, high-upside weapon who can ease the offensive burden. For the Lakers, Claxton may finally solve their ongoing center dilemma.

Detroit Pistons: The Floor-Spacer Cade Cunningham Needs

Don’t sleep on the Detroit Pistons. After a disastrous start to the 2024-25 season, the team showed signs of life when it put floor spacers around Cade Cunningham. Now with Malik Beasley and Tim Hardaway Jr. hitting free agency, Detroit needs new shooters to keep its momentum going.

Why it works:

• Knecht’s spacing would allow Cade to operate more efficiently in pick-and-roll scenarios.

• He’s also a solid off-ball player who complements Detroit’s isolation-heavy guard play.

Trade scenario:

• A bold Lakers-Pistons trade involving Jalen Duren, Knecht, and picks could shock the league.

• Alternatively, the Pistons could offer a package built around Isaiah Stewart, plus a young wing like Ausar Thompson, for Knecht and 2025 second-rounders.

There are whispers that Detroit is interested in big men like Myles Turner and Naz Reid this offseason. If they land one, Duren becomes slightly expendable—and very interesting for the Lakers.

The X-Factor: Kristaps Porziņģis?

There’s also a wildcard here: the Boston Celtics. Kristaps Porziņģis, while supremely talented, had a disastrous second-round playoff showing in 2025, and his value may be lower than ever.

Could the Lakers explore a Knecht-based package for Porziņģis?

Why it’s risky:

• Porziņģis’ injury history is extensive, and his $30+ million salary would require the Lakers to move multiple assets.

• But if healthy, he’s a perfect big man fit next to Doncic—elite shooting, rim protection, and post scoring.

A deal could center around Knecht, Rui Hachimura, and a 2026 first-rounder.

Why Knecht Is LA’s Most Important Trade Asset

Make no mistake—Dalton Knecht is the Lakers’ most valuable trade chip right now. He’s young, under contract, and already proving to be a top-tier shooter in a league where spacing is everything. He’s also the only rookie from LA’s 2024 class to consistently produce, making him more than just “filler” in trade packages.

While Bronny James may dominate headlines, Knecht dominates trade value. The Lakers can’t afford to squander him for minor upgrades. If they pull the trigger, it needs to be for a starting-caliber center or a reliable two-way wing.

Conclusion: A Summer of Hard Decisions

As the Lakers stare down a crucial offseason with championship aspirations, Rob Pelinka will have to weigh the cost of moving on from Dalton Knecht. Whether it’s for a rim protector like Claxton, a stretch five like Porziņģis, or a deal with a rebuilding team like Detroit, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

One thing is certain: teams will call. The only question is—will Pelinka listen?

Because if he does, Dalton Knecht’s next 3-pointer might not come in purple and gold.