Lakers Draft Pick Attracts Trade Interest Despite Performance Struggles
Dalton Knecht has seen his role with the Los Angeles Lakers shrink this season. The second-year guard remains available but rarely plays meaningful minutes.
Season overview and usage
Knecht was the 17th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. Expectations centered on his perimeter shooting translating quickly to the NBA.
Through 48 games, he averages 4.2 points and 1.4 rebounds. He plays 10.6 minutes per game while shooting 44.8 percent overall and 30.7 percent from three.
| Games | PPG | RPG | MPG | FG% | 3P% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 48 | 4.2 | 1.4 | 10.6 | 44.8 | 30.7 |
Reduced minutes and recent usage
His minutes have dwindled in recent weeks. In seven February appearances he totaled 36 minutes.
Over three March games he played just 10 minutes despite being healthy. His rotation spot looks increasingly uncertain.
G League performances
The Lakers have sent Knecht to the South Bay Lakers on multiple assignments. He has produced standout performances at that level.
In a December G League game, he scored 30 points. He also added five rebounds, two assists, two steals, and one block.
Stateline from the South Bay debut
- 30 points
- 5 rebounds
- 2 assists
- 2 steals
- 1 block
- 10-of-17 FG, 6-of-10 3PT
Trade interest and potential suitors
As a Lakers draft pick, Knecht has drawn trade attention. Teams have also noted his ongoing performance struggles.
No deal was reached at the February deadline. Yet offseason movement remains possible, according to William Moxon of Behind The Buck.
Moxon suggested the Milwaukee Bucks as a potential landing spot. He pointed to the Bucks’ track record of acquiring and developing overlooked young players.
Why Milwaukee could fit
The Bucks rank among the league leaders in three-point accuracy. They sit second in three-point percentage at 38.8 percent.
The club also averages 14.8 made threes per game. That perimeter focus could make a low-risk pick-up of Knecht attractive.
Moxon compared Knecht to recent reclamation projects such as Ousmane Dieng and other young additions.
Outlook
Knecht’s confidence has been affected by earlier setbacks, including a rescinded trade last season. He needs consistent minutes to regain form.
A change of scenery could help. In the right setting, with regular playing time, he might still fulfill first-round potential.
This report is presented by Filmogaz.com.
