The Los Angeles Lakers have recently faced setbacks in their efforts to improve their frontcourt, particularly while targeting Orlando Magic’s Goga Bitadze. Dalton Knecht’s declining trade value following a disappointing Summer League performance has complicated the Lakers’ plans to use him as a key asset in negotiations. This shift impacts their approach as they look to strengthen their roster in the current offseason.
Challenges with Current Frontcourt and Previous Trade Targets
Los Angeles has leaned heavily on Deandre Ayton, their former top draft pick, to anchor their interior defense, but Ayton’s effort on that side of the ball has often been criticized. Aiming to boost their frontline, the Lakers considered trading for Goga Bitadze, a promising center from the Magic. Earlier trade discussions frequently included Knecht, a young guard with potential, as a central piece to entice Orlando. However, recent developments have raised questions about Knecht’s worth in these deals.
Knecht’s Summer League Performance Lowers His Market Value
According to Lakers insider Jovan Buha, Knecht’s showing in the NBA Summer League diminished what was once a solid asset. Buha reported from Las Vegas that Knecht is no longer regarded by other teams as worthy of a first-round pick status in trades.
Summer League has not helped Knecht’s stock, and I don’t think at this point he is valued as a first-round pick, in terms of an asset valuation,
Buha said on his podcast.
Buha further highlighted the shift in perception through conversations with league insiders.
What would you give for Dalton Knecht? Or if the Lakers are putting Dalton Knecht in a trade, what is he worth? The feedback I got was, no longer worth a first-round valuation.
This assessment represents a significant change in how the Lakers can negotiate, undermining their initial expectations regarding Knecht’s value in acquiring Bitadze.
Implications for Lakers’ Trade Prospects with Orlando Magic
With Knecht’s trade value falling, the Lakers find themselves with fewer appealing offers to present the Magic. Their original plan included sending a young, sharpshooting guard to Orlando in exchange for a frontcourt player ready to contribute immediately. Without Knecht as a valuable bargaining chip, the Lakers’ ability to acquire Bitadze on favorable terms is diminished.
This shift likely reduces Orlando’s motivation to engage in trade talks centered around Bitadze, forcing the Lakers to rethink their strategy. The team now faces a crucial decision point in balancing their present need for experienced frontcourt help with the changing dynamics of player valuations.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Dalton Knecht an NBA prospect?
A. Knecht is seen as a possible early pick in the 2024 Draft, which has many unpredictable elements. Unlike some players expected to be chosen before him, Knecht seems like someone who can immediately help a team aiming for the playoffs.
Q. How much money did Dalton Knecht make?
A. Dalton Knecht has agreed to a four-year contract worth $18,483,220 with the Los Angeles Lakers. Of this, $7,829,280 is guaranteed. His average yearly pay will be $4,620,805. In the 2025-26 season, he will have a base salary, cap hit, and dead cap value each of $4,010,160.
Q. What did LeBron James say about Dalton Knecht?
A. Knecht made nine 3-pointers, matching the NBA record for a rookie in one game. James hinted that other teams missed out on Knecht’s talent. He commented, “The other 16 teams messed up by not picking DK.”
Q. Does Dalton Knecht have a degree?
A. Knecht balanced his time well, fitting in gym sessions alongside his school responsibilities. He earned excellent grades at Northeastern Junior College and later graduated with a communications degree from Northern Colorado.