With the 2025 NBA Draft underway, the Los Angeles Lakers are once again looking to maximize their options in the absence of a first-round pick—still owed to the New Orleans Pelicans from the Anthony Davis trade. As general manager Rob Pelinka eyes ways to retool the roster around LeBron James and Luka Dončić, trade speculation has begun swirling around several names, including former first-round pick Dalton Knecht.
Dalton Knecht’s Lakers Future in Doubt Amid Trade Talks
On Thursday, Clutch Points reported that the Miami Heat are interested in Knecht as part of a potential Andrew Wiggins trade. However, according to Legion Hoops‘ sources, the Lakers have expressed reluctance in including Knecht in the deal.
That report stands in contrast to other league chatter, which paints a more uncertain future for the 24-year-old wing. After being drafted 17th overall in 2024, Knecht saw a promising start to his Lakers tenure, averaging over 20 minutes across 48 games. But his role diminished sharply following a failed midseason trade that would have sent him to Charlotte for Mark Williams.
He logged only 10 minutes per game in the final stretch and was nearly invisible in the playoffs, suggesting a clear drop in value. “The Lakers don’t value Knecht as much as they did a year ago,” one league source said. “He might be a sweetener in a bigger deal.”
Given the Lakers’ cap constraints and need for veteran talent, Knecht—despite his upside—may ultimately be viewed as expendable. Whether he’s moved for Wiggins or another target remains to be seen.