Lakers seek trade partners to move Dalton Knecht before new season

The Los Angeles Lakers are attempting to trade Dalton Knecht as they work to reduce their payroll below the $201 million luxury-tax threshold. The team currently holds approximately $200.5 million in payroll and aims to clear salary following a failed sign-and-trade pursuit of Jonathan Kuminga. After a regression in his second season, Knecht saw his minutes drop from 19.2 to 10.2 per game under coach JJ Redick. The 25-year-old guard averaged 4.2 points and 1.4 rebounds during the 2025-26 season. Management remains confident they can move the former first-round pick into an opposing team’s salary exception before the start of the new season. The Lakers also possess interest in offloading Jaden Hardy to reach their financial objectives.

• 8:33 PMYahoo Sports — Lakers reportedly confident in finding trade suitor for $18 million disappointment