# Lakers cut former first-round pick days before season opener

> Lakers waive Dalton Knecht days before 2026-27 NBA season opener.
- Title: Lakers cut former first-round pick days before season opener
- Summary: Lakers waive Dalton Knecht days before 2026-27 NBA season opener. Lakers waived Dalton Knecht, a former first-round pick, days before the 2026-27 NBA season…
- Keywords: lakers, dalton knecht, nba, 2026-27 season, season opener, golden state warriors, cut, former, first-round, pick, days, season
- Source: Newsweek — https://newsweek.com/sports/lakers-cut-former-first-round-pick-days-before-season-opener-12591336
- Author: Bryan Colbert Jr.
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: lakers, dalton knecht, nba, 2026-27 season, season opener, golden state warriors
## Lakers waive Dalton Knecht
Lakers waived Dalton Knecht days before 2026-27 NBA season opener.
## Knecht's early impact
Knecht scored 37 points against Utah Jazz in November 2024, hitting nine three-pointers.
## Knecht's declining role
Knecht averaged 4.2 points in 10.2 minutes per game last season, struggling to stay in rotation.
## Trade attempt failed
Lakers tried to trade Knecht but rescinded deal after Mark Williams failed physical.
## Lakers prioritize roster
Lakers now focus on players who complement Luka Doncic's offensive system.
## Key takeaway

Lakers waived Dalton Knecht, a former first-round pick, days before the 2026-27 NBA season starts.