Lakers seek trade for Dalton Knecht and Jarred Vanderbilt after roster gap

The Los Angeles Lakers are actively exploring trade options for Dalton Knecht and Jarred Vanderbilt following the team's unsuccessful pursuit of Jonathan Kuminga during free agency. Los Angeles previously identified the power forward position as a primary area of need, but Kuminga signed a two-year deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves instead. Team leadership views the current roster as incomplete and aims to secure an upgrade at the wing and forward positions. Reports indicate the team has attempted to package the two players together throughout the summer, though interest from other franchises reportedly remains contingent on the specific pieces involved. The combined contracts of Knecht and Vanderbilt total $66 million, and the Lakers hope to resolve the roster configuration before they reach the 15-player limit. The organization continues to evaluate potential trades to bolster the rotation before the regular season begins.

• 2:31 PMYahoo Sports — Lakers reportedly want to shop $66M duo after missing out on Timberwolves’ Jonathan Kuminga