Brief
Lakers weigh cutting Dalton Knecht as roster trims to 15 players
Multiple sources say the Lakers could drop Knecht as they reduce the roster to the league maximum.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick said on Thursday that Dalton Knecht had a "good three days of practice" and is "hungry to earn a spot in the rotation," but rival executives expect him to be the "odd man out" as the team trims its roster from 16 to the league‑maximum 15 players.
Bleacher Report cited California Post reporter Khobi Price, who said several executives anticipate Knecht will be cut. ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel added that Knecht will face pressure from Jaden Hardy in training camp. Redick also noted Hardy could handle ball‑handling duties when Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves are off the floor.
Knecht, the 17th overall pick in 2024, posted 9.1 points per game as a rookie and 4.2 points in his sophomore season before a shooting slump in January. The preseason begins Oct. 5 against the Sacramento Kings, and final rosters are due Oct. 19.
Key facts
- Coach JJ Redick said Knecht had a good three days of practice and is hungry to earn a roster spot. (bleacherreport.com)
- Rival executives expect Knecht to be the odd man out as the Lakers cut the roster to 15 players. (bleacherreport.com)
- Dalton Knecht was the 17th overall pick in the 2024 draft and averaged 9.1 points as a rookie. (bleacherreport.com)
- The Lakers' preseason opens on Oct. 5 against the Sacramento Kings, with final rosters due Oct. 19. (bleacherreport.com)
Sources
- [1] bleacherreport.com — originally reported as “New Lakers Rumors on Dalton Knecht's Future, 'Odd Man Out' on Roster Ahead of NBA Season”
