Knicks reportedly interested in ex-Lakers sharpshooter, former first-rounder seeking fresh start originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Los Angeles Lakers didn’t hide the fact that Dalton Knecht was likely to be the odd man out this preseason, regardless of what he did on the court. The former first-round pick out of Tennessee appeared to be the one who would get the short end of the stick.
After barely playing during the preseason, Knecht became a potential trade candidate as the Lakers tried to get what they could for him. On Monday, with a trade failing to materialize, the Lakers waived him before the deadline.
“The Los Angeles Lakers are waiving 2024 No. 17 pick Dalton Knecht, sources tell ESPN," ESPN's Shams Charania wrote.
Before Knecht was officially waived, Lakers head coach JJ Redick revealed to the media why the once-prized rookie had seen his playing time dwindle to just a few minutes, if any.
“I think the biggest thing is the team changed. The team changed. Needs changed, the fit changed. I think he’s gotten better as a player the last two years. I think, particularly last year, each guy got plenty of opportunities with the injuries we had. I just think coming into this year, we added a lot of wings and he’s in a tough spot right now,” Redick said.
Despite the Lakers waiving him, Knecht has drawn interest from some legitimate contenders, including the New York Knicks, a former NBA champion.
“Knicks are among the teams with interest in former Laker Dalton Knecht, per league sources familiar with Knecth’s market. Knecht was waived prior to regular season. He’s eligible to sign a two-way deal. The Stein Line said earlier MIN had interest in Knecht,” SNY’s Ian Begley posted.
There is a growing belief that Knecht could thrive in the right offensive system and with a fresh start. The Knicks are not the only contending team interested in him, making it clear that the Lakers could have done another team a favor by letting him go.
Obviously, New York would want Knecht to provide scoring if he carves out a role with the team. However, most of his opportunities would likely come when players like OG Anunoby and Josh Hart miss time. Even then, his playing time could be limited, considering he would be on a two-way deal.
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