Lakers predicted to part ways with $18M former first-round draft bust after disappointing stint

The Los Angeles Lakers have had a productive offseason in terms of building a roster around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. However, the organization still believes there are moves that need to be made before the regular season begins.

The biggest challenge for the Lakers right now is reducing their roster size, as they are currently one player over the official limit. That means at least one player may not be on the roster when the season begins.

“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.

Two names who could potentially be playing elsewhere by then are Dalton Knecht and Jarred Vanderbilt. Neither player had a significant role for Los Angeles last season, and both have been mentioned in trade discussions throughout the summer.

“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.

There is growing belief that Knecht could be the first player the Lakers move. Lake Show Life’s Tyler Watts even suggested that the former first-round pick has reached draft bust territory.

“Knecht has officially reached draft bust status. The 25-year-old showed flashes during his rookie season, but hasn’t been the same since the Lakers traded him for Mark Williams. The deal was rescinded after the deadline because of a failed physical. LA didn’t get their center, and Knecht lost his confidence. The Lakers have shopped Knecht, but can’t find a taker. The best thing for both sides is to go in a different direction. Sadly, the trade isn’t materializing. Knecht is firmly on the trade block if any team wants him,” Watts wrote.

It has been an unfortunate turn of events for Knecht's young NBA career. His rookie season was trending in a positive direction before he was involved in the trade with the Charlotte Hornets. However, after the deal was rescinded, he returned to Los Angeles and struggled to regain his momentum.

Knecht is still on his $18 million rookie contract, making him a relatively affordable option for interested teams. However, the 25-year-old has not been able to fully recover from the failed trade situation, and that could ultimately lead the Lakers to move him before the season begins.

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