Los Angeles Lakers evaluate Dalton Knecht as roster cut candidate

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 7, 2026, 12:18 AM

Last updated Sep 7, 2026

Los Angeles Lakers evaluate Dalton Knecht as roster cut candidate
Summary

The Los Angeles Lakers must reduce their roster to 15 standard contracts before the October 19 deadline, leaving guard Dalton Knecht as a primary candidate for release. The team currently holds 16 contracts, requiring a trade or a waiver before the season opener. Analyst Trevor Lane noted that the front office has until the team option deadline to determine Knecht's future, though the roster appears largely settled following offseason acquisitions. Recent additions to the backcourt include Collin Sexton, Quentin Grimes, Jaden Hardy, and Matisse Thybulle, while the team also holds interest in the development of Bronny James and draft pick Cameron Carr. After experiencing a decline in minutes and three-point accuracy last season, Knecht faces significant competition for playing time behind starters Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. The front office may explore trade options to acquire a second-round pick rather than waiving the player outright.

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By the Numbers
  • The Lakers must trim the roster from 16 to 15 players by October 19.
  • Dalton Knecht is considered a primary candidate to be waived or traded.
  • Knecht shot 34.2 percent from three-point range during the previous season.
  • The Lakers added guards Collin Sexton, Quentin Grimes, Jaden Hardy, and Matisse Thybulle this summer.
  • The organization has until November 2 to decide on a $6.45 million team option for next season.
Latest Updates
  • 12:18 AMYahoo SportsOne Lakers Guard Is an Obvious Cut Candidate This Season
What they're saying
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The Lakers have 16 standard contracts and room for 15, and Dalton Knecht has the most to lose before the roster is set on Oct. 19.

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