Lakers predicted to trade Dalton Knecht, Jake LaRavia for $36M much-needed rim protector

The Los Angeles Lakers have been one of the more active teams this summer following LeBron James revealing he would not return. Outside of Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic, Los Angeles is expected to have an entirely new starting lineup this season.

The Lakers are focused on building a younger roster that fits Doncic and Reaves’ timeline. However, they are still looking to add more depth at the center position.

“The Lakers are still monitoring the market for big men, team sources told The Athletic," The Athletic’s Dan Woike reported. "They traded for Walker Kessler and signed Kevon Looney to play center, and Mamukelashvili can play the position, too. The team could address the position either by trade or signing, like with potentially adding Thybulle. The roster is currently at full capacity."

The Lakers have also remained active on the trade market. Los Angeles has explored moving contracts belonging to Jarred Vanderbilt and Dalton Knecht as they look to improve the roster.

“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.

With the Lakers searching for additional center depth or a stretch big, moving Knecht in a trade could become a realistic option. NBA writer Jake Weinbach believes Los Angeles could potentially send Knecht and Jake LaRavia to the Chicago Bulls for Jalen Smith.

“If the Lakers discuss the possibility of acquiring Jalen Smith, a trade package would likely include Jake LaRavia, Dalton Knecht, and second-round draft compensation. Smith is reportedly a trade target for the Lakers, but it’s unclear if the Bulls are willing to move the 26-year-old big man,” Weinbach wrote.

Smith would provide valuable depth for the Lakers and has the ability to play both the power forward and center positions. At this point, Los Angeles is looking for reliable pieces to strengthen the roster around its stars. The Bulls could also have interest in taking on Knecht as they continue building around their young core.

Smith has earned $36 million throughout his NBA career. His ability to protect the rim would make him a strong backup option behind Walker Kessler. If Chicago is willing to take on Knecht’s contract, the Lakers could have a realistic path to completing the deal.

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