Lakers' $66M promising duo makes shocking Summer League decision amid trade rumors

The Los Angeles Lakers have been very active this summer as they continue reshaping the roster following LeBron James' announcement that he would not be returning. The first major move came when Los Angeles acquired Walker Kessler in a trade with the Utah Jazz.

The Lakers followed that up with several key moves, including signing Colin Sexton, Quentin Grimes, and bringing back Austin Reaves. However, the organization remains active on the trade market and could look to move Dalton Knecht and Jarred Vanderbilt.

“The Lakers are actively shopping Dalton Knecht and Jarred Vanderbilt in trade talks. After gaining two second-round picks in the Deandre Ayton trade, Los Angeles could consolidate those assets in a deal immediately for a starting-caliber wing,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery wrote.

Knecht could be looking for a fresh start after beginning his rookie season with the Lakers on a strong note. The former first-round pick was briefly involved in a trade to the Charlotte Hornets, but the deal was ultimately rescinded.

“In the span of a week, Dalton Knecht went from playing for the Los Angeles Lakers to joining the Charlotte Hornets to going back to the Lakers after the trade that sent him to Charlotte was rescinded,” ESPN insider Dave McMenamin wrote. “Knecht said he was at the Lakers' practice facility on Feb. 5 going through his normal routine before his shooting drills -- needing to make 25 shots from the foul line -- when he was interrupted after his 20th free throw.”

With Vanderbilt and Knecht's futures with the organization uncertain, the duo would typically be expected to focus solely on offseason training. However, both players have been in Las Vegas attending Summer League games, which has raised some eyebrows.

“The Lakers pulled up to support the summer squad,” the Lakers posted.

The Lakers pulled up to support the summer squad 💜💛 pic.twitter.com/xkO3ryj1Yy

While it is somewhat surprising to see the two players attend Summer League amid trade speculation, it also speaks to the type of teammates they are. Despite the uncertainty surrounding their futures with Los Angeles, both players continue to support the organization and their teammates.

Vanderbilt and Knecht's contracts combine for $66 million, and the Lakers appear to be attempting to move them together in a potential trade. So far, no deal has been completed.

Until a trade happens, Vanderbilt and Knecht will continue representing the Lakers organization, regardless of the circumstances. Their decision to show up and support the team amid uncertainty surrounding their futures is certainly notable.

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