The Los Angeles Lakers made a procedural but telling move ahead of opening night, exercising their team option on Dalton Knecht for the 2026–27 season. Multiple outlets — including The Los Angeles Times’ Dan Woike, ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, and Keith Smith of Spotrac — confirmed the decision, which locks Knecht in for $4.2 million next season.
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A Vote of Confidence — and Patience By The Lakers
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While largely expected, the decision signals continued belief in Knecht’s long-term potential despite an uneven first year and rocky preseason. “The Lakers have picked up Dalton Knecht’s option for next season,” Woike reported, with McMenamin adding that the deal “keeps him under contract for $4.2 million.” Smith noted that the team exercised its rookie-scale option ahead of the October 31 deadline.
The 17th overall pick in the 2024 draft, Knecht began his rookie campaign on a hot streak, averaging 12.2 points per game and shooting 43.9% from three through his first 19 appearances. But as defenses adjusted and rotations shifted, his production dipped — finishing the year at 8.1 points per game while shooting just 34.8% from deep.
A Chance to Prove Himself
Despite his struggles in Summer League and preseason play — where he shot a combined 32% from the field — head coach JJ Redick has reportedly been “impressed by Knecht in training camp,” according to several team insiders. That impression may earn him valuable early-season minutes with LeBron James sidelined by a back injury.
Knecht’s offensive spacing and shooting upside align with Redick’s system, offering him a pathway back into the rotation. If he can regain his early rookie form, the Lakers’ $4.2 million commitment could look like a bargain. If not, it’s a manageable contract — but one that underscores LA’s willingness to bet on growth rather than give up too soon.
