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Dalton Knecht is only in his third NBA season, but his tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers appears to be nearing an end. The relationship may have reached a point where parting ways would benefit both parties.
Some within the Lakers organization view Knecht as a case of unfulfilled potential. Not long ago, he was regularly putting up big numbers, including two 30-point games during his rookie year. Now, he seems the most likely casualty of the Lakers' roster crunch, as the team must trim one player before the 2026-27 regular season begins.
Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green contends that everything changed for Knecht after the Lakers rescinded their trade for Mark Williams, which would have sent Knecht to the Charlotte Hornets, due to a failed physical.
On the latest episode of The Draymond Green Show, Green said, "It's crazy because Dalton Knecht seemed like he had a little bit of promise to him, but after that trade that got voided by the Hornets to bring him in and send Mark Williams to the Lakers, the Lakers voided the trade because of Mark Williams' back. Dalton Knecht just been in purgatory ever since and ultimately I think it ruined him."
Before the failed Williams trade, Knecht averaged 9.4 points in over 20 minutes per game for the Lakers. In 84 games since then, he has averaged just 5.7 points in 12.5 minutes per contest, often finding himself outside the rotation for extended stretches.
Green also pointed out that Jaden Hardy and Bronny James have outperformed the sharpshooter from Tennessee in training camp. Many believe Knecht is the odd man out for the Lakers, and teams in need of a microwave scorer would be wise to take a chance on him if he becomes available.
Key Analysis
Green's comments highlight how a single transaction can alter a player's trajectory. The voided trade seemingly placed Knecht in a difficult position, and his statistical decline underscores the impact. As the Lakers face a roster decision, Knecht's future hangs in the balance, with potential suitors monitoring the situation.
Originally reported by yahoo.