# Dalton Knecht waived by Lakers: Why 2024 draft class doomed from start

> Lakers waive Dalton Knecht after failed trade, 2024 draft class shows early signs of collapse.
- Title: Dalton Knecht waived by Lakers: Why 2024 draft class doomed…
- Summary: Lakers waive Dalton Knecht after failed trade, 2024 draft class shows early signs of collapse. Lakers waived Dalton Knecht following failed trade to…
- Keywords: dalton knecht, lakers, nba, 2024 draft, zaccharie risacher, nfl, nba draft, sports, Dalton, Knecht, waived, 2024
- Source: CBS Sports — https://cbssports.com/nba/news/nba-2024-draft-class-dalton-knecht-lakers-zaccharie-risacher
- Published: 2026-10-19T21:42:21+00:00
- Read time: 2 min
- Topics: dalton knecht, lakers, nba, 2024 draft, zaccharie risacher, nfl, nba draft, sports
## 2024 NBA Draft class under scrutiny
The 2024 draft class lacked consensus blue-chip talent compared to 2023, 2025, and 2026 classes.
## Zaccharie Risacher traded after two seasons
Risacher, the No. 1 pick, was traded to the Mavericks after a promising rookie season with Atlanta.
## Dalton Knecht waived by Lakers
Knecht was waived by the Lakers following a failed trade to Charlotte that included Mark Williams.
## Knecht's breakout performance
Knecht scored 37 points in a 124-118 win against the Utah Jazz during the NBA Cup.
## Failed trade to Charlotte
The trade for Knecht was rescinded after Mark Williams failed a physical exam with the Lakers.
## Risacher's playoff struggles
Risacher played only 22 minutes across three games during the first round of the playoffs.
## Knecht's rookie season impact
Knecht appeared in 54 games averaging over 10 minutes per contest during his rookie season.
## Seven players traded from top 20 picks
Seven players from the 2024 draft's top 20 picks have been traded or cut by teams.
## Risacher's potential with Mavericks
Risacher may find a role with the Mavericks under coach Dusty May who has experience with jumbo lineups.
## Knecht's trade rumors
Knecht has been a constant fixture in trade rumors since his failed trade to Charlotte.
## 2024 draft class instability
The 2024 draft class shows early signs of instability with multiple players traded or cut.
## 2027 draft class potential
The 2027 draft class features potential stars like Tyran Stokes and Jordan Smith Jr. but remains uncertain.
## 2024 class as cautionary tale
The 2024 draft class may serve as a cautionary tale for next summer's draft due to early instability.
## Risacher's trade to Mavericks
Risacher was traded to the Mavericks after two seasons with Atlanta.
## Knecht's draft position
Knecht was selected as the No. 17 pick in the 2024 draft after sliding from expectations.
## 2024 draft class outlook
The 2024 draft class shows early signs of instability with multiple players traded or cut.
## Key takeaway

Lakers waived Dalton Knecht following failed trade to Charlotte, highlighting 2024 draft class's early instability.