Dalton Knecht’s position with the Los Angeles Lakers is becoming increasingly uncertain as the 2024 Summer League progresses. The 24-year-old guard, expected to make a significant impact, has instead faced difficulties, struggling with shooting accuracy, particularly from beyond the arc, and showing troubling defensive lapses. These issues have attracted the attention and concern of both analysts and team officials.
Expert Opinions Highlight Performance Decline
Sports analyst Jovan Buha has expressed serious doubts about Knecht’s effectiveness, noting an unsettling downturn in his overall play.
This has been something that has been a little alarming,
Buha stated, pointing out reservations about Knecht’s ability to consistently perform on both ends of the court. When the Lakers drafted Knecht 17th overall last year, there was significant excitement, with General Manager Rob Pelinka remarking on Knecht’s availability as surprising.
We had him as a top-10 player unanimously across our scouting boards,
Pelinka said at the time.
During his rookie year, Knecht displayed promise by averaging 9.1 points and 3 rebounds per game, suggesting a potential future as a key contributor. However, the current Summer League outcomes have fueled doubts regarding whether he will be able to reach such projected levels. Buha emphasized the pressure Knecht faces since he is both older than many emerging talents and in his sophomore season. He’s 24, Buha explained, contrasting him with younger players like Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball, who have quickly become foundational figures for their teams.
Defensive Struggles and Trade Discussions Affecting Knecht’s Outlook
Knecht’s struggles on the defensive end have been particularly pronounced. Buha remarked,
Defensively, he has somehow looked even worse than he did during the regular season… He just looks disinterested in a lot of possessions out there.
This shortfall is critical for the Lakers, who ranked fifteenth in defensive efficiency last season and are eager to tighten their defense as LeBron James advances in age and the team aims to contend for a championship.
Adding to pressure on Knecht are trade rumors that have emerged around him. Earlier in the year, Pelinka pursued a trade sending Knecht to the Charlotte Hornets for Mark Williams, but the transaction fell through due to Williams not passing his physical examination. This attempt indicated that the Lakers’ front office is open to moving Knecht if it benefits roster improvement.
A Pivotal Game Ahead for Knecht’s Future
The Lakers have proactively bolstered their squad, notably with the signing of Deandre Ayton, and continue to explore options including talks with the Portland Trail Blazers and Miami Heat. In this context, Knecht’s recent performances have made his place in the rotation increasingly precarious. Analyst Tim MacMahon was frank about Knecht’s standing:
This was not a weekend where his value was boosted.
Knecht now faces a crucial test in an upcoming Summer League game against the Dallas Mavericks, a match that has drawn attention not only due to its competitiveness but also because of the anticipated debut of Cooper Flagg. Buha underscored the game’s importance:
It’s gonna be a huge game… That’s going to be a big game and we’ll see how Dalton fares.
This game represents a chance for Knecht to demonstrate his value and reclaim a significant role with the Lakers. However, time is a critical factor as the team seeks immediate contributions to strengthen its quest for a championship. As the Summer League proceeds, Knecht remains at a pivotal moment, with his future in Los Angeles increasingly uncertain.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How much money did Dalton Knecht make?
A. Dalton Knecht agreed to a four-year contract with the Los Angeles Lakers worth $18,483,220. The deal guarantees him $7,829,280, with an annual average income of $4,620,805.
Q. Did the bus leave Dalton Knecht?
A. Recently updated: Dalton Knecht, a new player for the Los Angeles Lakers, might play against the Utah Jazz, but it’s uncertain. The team bus mistakenly left him behind. The driver confessed he forgot Knecht was still part of the Lakers after a canceled trade with the Charlotte Hornets.
Q. Why did Dalton Knecht fall to 17?
A. It’s clearly about finances. When Dalton is ready for a major contract, he’s 27, which might cause teams to pause. However, the Lakers didn’t wait and secured a rookie prepared to perform.
Q. How much did Dalton Knecht get?
A. Dalton Knecht agreed to a four-year contract worth $18,483,220 with the Los Angeles Lakers. Of that amount, $7,829,280 is guaranteed. His yearly salary averages $4,620,805. During the 2025-26 season, Knecht’s base salary will be $4,010,160, and this will also be his cap hit and dead cap value.