NBA trade rumors: Los Angeles Lakers looking to part ways with $14.7 million star guard to strengthen roster depth

The Los Angeles Lakers could be gearing up for yet another active trade window as speculation builds around the future of Dalton Knecht. Despite a promising start to his NBA career, the 24-year-old guard may be on his way out of Los Angeles as the front office explores ways to solidify the team’s championship push.Through seven games, the Lakers hold a 5-2 record - a respectable start - but the franchise hasn’t ruled out potential roster moves to enhance its depth and versatility ahead of the trade deadline.

Dalton Knecht’s Fast Start and Sudden Shift

Dalton Knecht’s time in Los Angeles began with high expectations, and early on, he delivered in a big way. As Lake Show Life’s Quinn Everts pointed out, “Dalton Knecht’s tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers may have started off too strongly.” (H/t: Sporting News)Everts added, “The Lakers expected Knecht (who was 23 on draft night) to contribute immediately - and he did just that!” The Tennessee product impressed fans and analysts alike with his explosive start, averaging 13.6 points per game while shooting 46% from beyond the arc during a scorching November stretch last season.

However, that early success may have set the bar too high. Now, as Everts suggests, Knecht’s long-term future in Los Angeles is uncertain. “Knecht being a Laker past this year’s deadline would be a relative shock,” he wrote.

Current Struggles and Trade Value

After showing flashes of brilliance in his rookie campaign, Knecht has struggled to maintain consistency. His offensive arsenal remains impressive, capable of creating shots both on and off the ball.

Yet, his decision-making and shot selection have raised concerns, and his defensive limitations have made his margin for error increasingly slim.

Dalton Knecht’s 2025 Season Stats

Knecht’s dip in shooting efficiency and defensive impact has made him a potential trade piece for the Los Angeles Lakers. Reports indicate that the Charlotte Hornets nearly acquired him in an early February trade last season - a sign that front offices around the league still see untapped potential in the young guard.

Potential Trade Scenarios

One plausible trade scenario could see Knecht packaged in a deal for a veteran asset. A name floated in speculative discussions is Andrew Wiggins, whose two-way ability could provide the Lakers with a much-needed defensive upgrade while adding perimeter scoring.

Possible Trade Benefits for the Los Angeles Lakers

• Gain an experienced two-way forward • Free up roster flexibility • Provide Knecht a chance to develop elsewhere • Strengthen playoff rotation depthShould a deal materialize, it would signal that the Los Angeles Lakers are prioritizing win-now pieces over long-term player development - a move consistent with their championship aspirations.

My Two Cents on this Mock Trade

While Dalton Knecht remains a promising young talent, his future in Los Angeles appears uncertain. With trade rumors intensifying and the Los Angeles Lakers aiming to maximize their championship window, moving the 24-year-old guard could be a strategic decision rather than an indictment of his potential.Also read: NBA trade rumors: Los Angeles Lakers predicted to cut ties with $33 Million guard to make room for roster upgrade ahead of deadlineAs Quinn Everts aptly summarized, Knecht’s strong debut might have been a double-edged sword - a start too good to sustain, leading to expectations that now weigh heavily on his Lakers tenure.