The Los Angeles Lakers are actively trying to find trade partners for Dalton Knecht and Jarred Vanderbilt. The moves would create additional cap flexibility as Austin Reaves prepares to sign a new contract expected to exceed $40 million per year. Knecht, the No. 17 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, fell out of JJ Redick's rotation during the 2025-26 season and averaged 4.2 points per game. His limited role reflected a clear organizational view that the former Tennessee standout did not fit the team's needs on a roster built for versatility.

Knecht's production remained confined to spot-up shooting. He never developed into the impactful rotation player many projected after he was selected in the first round. The Lakers reached the second round of the playoffs before exiting, and the front office now sees his contract, paired with Vanderbilt's, as an opportunity to shed salary. Los Angeles sits near the luxury-tax line, and freeing up space could allow the team to pursue upgrades that address defensive and playmaking gaps exposed in the postseason.

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From a strategic standpoint, Knecht's one-dimensional skill set limited his minutes. The Lakers prioritize forwards who can switch defensively and stretch the floor without becoming liabilities. Knecht's perimeter focus left him vulnerable in schemes that demand multiple responsibilities on both ends. Moving him would open a roster spot for a more complete contributor or allow the front office to package the deal for future assets that better align with the franchise's contention window alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

This pursuit continues a pattern for the Lakers after recent playoff disappointments. The organization has shown willingness to move on from former lottery selections who fail to carve out consistent roles. Knecht's case stands out because he arrived with clear shooting promise yet could not earn trust in high-leverage situations. Retaining him on the bench risks stunting his growth while occupying cap space that could be redirected toward veterans capable of immediate two-way impact.

The timing adds urgency. The NBA trade window opens on July 1, the salary-cap moratorium lifts on July 6, and the deadline for completing sign-and-trades falls on July 10. Finding a partner willing to absorb both contracts would give Los Angeles breathing room to retain Reaves and target wing help in free agency. Such a reset would benefit Knecht as well, placing him on a roster where he could receive regular minutes to refine his game away from the pressures of a star-driven environment.

Ultimately, the willingness to move a former top-20 selection underscores a fundamental truth in the NBA. Draft position alone cannot secure long-term standing when on-court production and scheme fit fall short. For the Lakers, this potential departure represents a chance to recalibrate the roster with players who can contribute more comprehensively as they chase another title.