The Los Angeles Lakers put themselves in a difficult spot after making so many moves during the summer that they ended up with one player over the roster limit. For some time, it seemed clear that Dalton Knecht was going to be the odd man out.
LA was pretty much set with its roster heading into the preseason, and Lakers head coach JJ Redick revealed what changed for Knecht.
“I think the biggest thing is the team changed. The team changed. Needs changed, the fit changed. I think he's gotten better as a player the last two years. I think, particularly last year, each guy got plenty of opportunities with the injuries we had. I just think coming into this year, we added a lot of wings and he's in a tough spot right now," Redick said.
Earlier in the week, every team around the league had to make cuts to get its roster down to the required limit. LA ultimately decided to officially waive Knecht.
“The Los Angeles Lakers are waiving 2024 No. 17 pick Dalton Knecht, sources tell ESPN,” ESPN’s Shams Charania wrote.
There is interest from multiple teams around the league in potentially signing Knecht to a two-way contract. Knox News’ Wynton Jackson believes Knecht will sign with the Philadelphia 76ers and reunite with LeBron James.
“Early in Knecht's rookie year with the Lakers, he erupted for 37 points in a win over the Utah Jazz. His teammate, LeBron James, famously criticized opposing NBA teams for allowing the Lakers to draft Knecht at No. 17. James is now with the Philadelphia 76ers for one last title run before he retires. The Sixers have a deeper roster and championship aspirations. However, it's unlikely that James, 41, and the oft-injured 2023 MVP Joel Embiid will play the entire 82-game regular season schedule. Philadelphia could take a flier on Knecht to step in when its two superstars rest, and his shooting ability could swing a playoff game,” Jackson wrote.
There is no doubt that Knecht was dealt a bad hand in LA, but he now has an opportunity to join a team that could give him a chance to prove himself.
The 76ers' main rotation may be difficult to crack, but Knecht could have opportunities to show what he can do when the roster is shorthanded. All he needs is a chance to prove he belongs in the NBA.
