From EssentiallySports · Ubong Richard · · 2m
Lakers Waive Dalton Knecht After Failed Trade Efforts
Lakers cut Dalton Knecht after multiple trade attempts failed, keeping Bronny James.
In brief
Lakers cut Dalton Knecht after multiple trade attempts failed, keeping Bronny James. Lakers waived Dalton Knecht, a former first-round pick, after failed trade attempts, while Bronny James remains on the roster. Originally reported by EssentiallySports.
Lakers draft Dalton Knecht
On November 19, 2024, Dalton Knecht scored 37 points against Utah Jazz, hitting nine three-pointers to tie the NBA record for most threes by a rookie in a game.
Knecht waived by Lakers
Less than two years later, the Lakers waived Dalton Knecht after failing to find a trade for him, while Bronny James remains on the roster.
LeBron James' early praise
LeBron James called Knecht his favorite college player, saying he believed his game would translate to the NBA.
Knecht's college stats
Knecht averaged 21.7 points per game at Tennessee, winning SEC Player of the Year and first-team All-American honors.
Knecht's early NBA success
Knecht started nine straight games in November 2024, averaging 18.9 points and 4.9 rebounds.
Knecht's defensive concerns
Scouts reported Knecht's defensive limitations, especially his lateral quickness and ability to handle defensive assignments.
Knecht's 2025-26 decline
Knecht played 54 games in 2025-26, scoring 4.2 points per game and shooting 34.2% from three-point range.
Mark Williams trade collapse
The Lakers agreed to trade Knecht to Charlotte for center Mark Williams but rescinded the deal after Williams failed his physical.
Failed trade talks with Bucks
The Lakers explored sending Knecht and second-round draft capital to Milwaukee for Jericho Sims but the deal did not materialize.
Lakers waive Knecht
The Lakers waived Knecht to meet the 15-player roster limit, leaving his $4,201,080 guaranteed salary with the team.
Bronny James' progress
Bronny James increased his playing time from 6.7 to 8.9 minutes per game, improving his shooting percentages to 40.9% from the field.
Knecht's future
Knecht's next opportunity depends on whether another team believes his shooting can outweigh his defensive limitations.
What matters most
Lakers waived Dalton Knecht, a former first-round pick, after failed trade attempts, while Bronny James remains on the roster.
