Lakers predicted to trade Dalton Knecht for $156M former first-rounder, Summer League MVP

The Los Angeles Lakers knew they would not be bringing LeBron James back once he informed the organization of his decision. That officially marked the beginning of the Luka Doncic era in Los Angeles, with the franchise now building around Doncic and Austin Reaves.

The Lakers wasted no time moving forward after James’ departure in free agency. Their first major move was trading for Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler.

“The Los Angeles Lakers started the process of remaking their roster in the wake of LeBron James' decision to leave with a blockbuster trade and a trio of free agency signings Wednesday. Sources told ESPN's Shams Charania that the Lakers are acquiring Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz for unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033 and first-round swaps in 2028 and 2030,” ESPN wrote.

Los Angeles is not done making moves, as the team parted ways with Deandre Ayton shortly after acquiring Kessler. Now, reports indicate that the Lakers are actively attempting to trade Dalton Knecht and Jarred Vanderbilt.

“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 hoping Knecht can create enough value to help them land another impactful player through a trade. Heavy.com’s Erik Anderson believes Knecht could potentially be moved in a deal involving Denver Nuggets center Jonas Valanciunas.

“He would also protect the Lakers from overextending Kessler early in the season after such a significant investment. The question is whether that protection is worth Knecht. If Valanciunas becomes available at a lower cost, the Lakers should be interested. If Denver’s price centers on Knecht, Los Angeles should hesitate,” Anderson wrote.

Los Angeles needs a veteran big man to serve as Kessler’s backup, and Valanciunas fits that role as a former first-round pick who has been in the league for more than a decade. Valanciunas would give the Lakers valuable experience and help stabilize their second unit.

Valanciunas has earned more than $156 million in NBA contracts throughout his career. A trade would give Knecht a fresh start, and he could thrive alongside Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray in Denver. Before his rescinded trade, Knecht was viewed as one of the top rookies in the league.

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