The Los Angeles Lakers are making headlines as they focus on adding reliable shooting through their current Summer League evaluations, with the Dalton Knecht Lakers workout drawing attention to fresh and familiar faces alike. Notably, Cole Swider, known for his previous stint with the Lakers, was observed practicing alongside Knecht, fueling rumors about his potential future with the team and intensifying speculation throughout the NBA community.
Cole Swider’s NBA Journey and Current Free Agency
Swider launched his professional basketball career following his collegiate days at Villanova and Syracuse, joining the Lakers before experiencing brief periods with the Miami Heat, Detroit Pistons, and Toronto Raptors. Despite these stops, Swider has not secured a long-term deal and currently remains a free agent, with his activities in the Summer League potentially signaling renewed interest from the Lakers’ organization or providing an important opportunity to display his value to teams seeking outside shooting.
Examining Swider’s Performance: NBA Struggles vs. G League Success
Swider’s efforts in the NBA have produced a modest three-point shooting rate at 32.9%, underscoring the challenge of transitioning this skill to the highest professional level. However, in the G League, Swider has excelled as a marksman, posting a 43.6% shooting percentage from deep during the 2022-23 campaign. His proficiency climbed to a remarkable 50.0% the next season before registering at 44.1% for the 2024-25 season. These numbers highlight Swider’s capacity to be a meaningful contributor if he translates his G League shooting efficiency to NBA games.
Lakers’ Evaluation and Swider’s Potential Role
The Lakers, always actively hunting for shooters who can space the floor, may view Swider as an intriguing addition given his impressive G League history and familiarity with the organization. At 6-foot-8 and weighing 220 pounds, Swider offers versatility on the court; while his defense is not his strongest attribute, his ability to stretch defenses with his shooting could be a valuable weapon for Los Angeles. The team’s ongoing roster evaluation process makes his presence at workouts especially notable.
What Comes Next for Swider and the Lakers?
As the Lakers continue refining their roster during this pivotal Summer League window, attention will remain fixed on Cole Swider’s performance and development. His consistent three-point shooting in the developmental league and previous connection to the franchise may position him for a return to Los Angeles, should the organization look to bolster its outside shooting. Given the ever-present demand for shooters in the NBA and Swider’s unique skillset, his time with Knecht during the Lakers’ practices could be a critical step toward reigniting his NBA career or opening doors across the league.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How much money did Dalton Knecht make?
A. Dalton Knecht agreed to a four-year deal with the Los Angeles Lakers worth $18,483,220. Out of this amount, $7,829,280 is guaranteed. On average, he will earn $4,620,805 per year.