Lakers expected to part ways with $18M former first-round blunder before the season begins

The Los Angeles Lakers have been extremely active this offseason, adding multiple pieces to build around Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic. The duo is ready to become the new faces of the franchise following LeBron James’ departure from the organization.

The Lakers’ offseason has been so busy that they have already completed two trades. However, they currently sit above the roster limit with 16 players under contract.

“There are, however, obvious holes. With 16 roster spots, the Lakers would need to get rid of at least one player, though they can carry as many as 20 through training camp in October,” Heavy.com’s Sean Deveney wrote.

At some point, Los Angeles will have to make one or two moves to create roster flexibility. The good news is that this offseason has been much more eventful than previous years. Former first-round pick Dalton Knecht has emerged as one of the players the Lakers are reportedly willing to move.

“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Knecht’s time in Los Angeles took a difficult turn after a rescinded trade during his rookie season. Since then, he has struggled to return to the level he showed early in his career. Lake Show Life’s Colin Keane believes the Lakers could move on from Knecht soon.

“I'm not sure why the Lakers wouldn't try to keep Knecht and rehabilitate things relationship-wise, but if McMenamin's reporting can be trusted, then it's probably the case that the Knecht ship has sailed, and the Lakers just feel that moving on from him is the best option,” Keane wrote.

There is no doubt that a change of scenery could benefit Knecht as he looks to get his career back on track. The Tennessee standout still has plenty of talent and could thrive in a new environment.

Knecht is currently on his $18 million rookie contract. While Los Angeles appears ready to move in a different direction despite his impressive start, the former first-round pick has seen his value decline after a promising beginning to his NBA career.

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