Lakers look to trade Knecht and LaRavia for center Jalen Smith

The Los Angeles Lakers are considering a trade that would send Dalton Knecht and Jake LaRavia to the Chicago Bulls for center Jalen Smith. The Lakers aim to bolster their roster, particularly at the center position, following the departure of LeBron James. The team has been active in the trade market, seeking reliable assets to complement their core players Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic. Smith, who has a career earnings total of $36 million, could provide valuable rim protection as a backup behind Walker Kessler. Negotiations are ongoing, with the Lakers potentially including second-round draft picks in the deal if the Bulls are amenable to acquiring Knecht.

• 5:55 PMYahoo Sports — Lakers predicted to trade Dalton Knecht, Jake LaRavia for $36M much-needed rim protector