Lakers predicted to flip Dalton Knecht, Jarred Vanderbilt for $88M two-way veteran in 3-team deal

The Los Angeles Lakers have been very active this summer, and it has true fans excited about what the future holds. With LeBron James departing, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are officially the new faces of the franchise.

Los Angeles has been making moves this offseason to reshape its roster. The Lakers have also made players such as Jarred Vanderbilt and Dalton Knecht available in trade discussions.

“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.

The Lakers are doing everything they can to build a younger roster around Doncic and Reaves. One of their biggest priorities is adding more athleticism, which is why they have reportedly checked in on Dallas Mavericks forward PJ Washington.

“The Lakers checked in with the Mavericks on PJ Washington. After Los Angeles’ last transaction with Dallas, the all-time shocking Luka Doncic trade, it’s unknown whether ownership would sign off here. A potential contingency plan for LA, if they don’t acquire Jonathan Kuminga,” Sidery posted.

Los Angeles is expected to be aggressive in its pursuit of Washington, who would fill a major need for the organization. NBA writer Jake Weinbach proposed a three-team trade involving Washington landing with the Lakers.

“A trade idea between the Lakers, Mavericks, and Bulls: Lakers: PJ Washington. Mavericks: Jarred Vanderbilt, 2032 first-round pick swap (via LAL), 2031 second-round pick (via WAS from LAL), 2033 second-round pick (via LAL). Bulls: Dalton Knecht, 2032 second-round pick (via WAS from LAL),” Weinbach wrote.

This trade idea makes sense for each team involved. The Lakers would move two players they are reportedly looking to trade while adding Washington, a player who fits their roster needs. The Bulls would acquire a young shooter in Knecht, while the Mavericks would add a defensive-minded player in Vanderbilt.

Washington is currently under an $88 million contract with the Mavericks. The Lakers have a clear need for a player like Washington, and if Dallas and Chicago are willing to accept the proposed package, Los Angeles could have a strong reason to pursue the deal.

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