Dalton Knecht Named in Lakers Trade Report on Saturday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Jun 28, 2025 3:14 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers continue to explore ways to strengthen their roster this offseason as they look to build a more balanced group around LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Following an early playoff exit, the front office has prioritized adding size and rim protection to complement their star duo while working around limited cap flexibility.

One area that remains a clear focus is at center. Los Angeles has struggled with consistent interior defense over the past two seasons, often relying on smaller lineups that left them vulnerable against bigger frontcourts. The team nearly traded rookie wing Dalton Knecht for center Mark Williams at the deadline, but rescinded the deal after failing Williams on his physical.

In a new report on Saturday from ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, Knecht was again named as a positive trade asset Los Angeles can use to upgrade areas of need on the roster, particularly at center.

"On the trade market, Dalton Knecht and the Lakers' 2031 first-rounder will continue to be positive assets the Lakers can include in offers, as well as the expiring contracts of Rui Hachimura ($18.3 million), Gabe Vincent ($11.5 million) and Maxi Kleber ($11 million) as Pelinka searches for a center," he wrote.

New story: A look at the Lakers options when it comes to offseason upgrades as we approach the start of free agency https://t.co/ruqcApwG7a
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) June 28, 2025

McMenamin named Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler as a player LA has shown interest in, but mentioned the asking price had previously been too steep. Last season, the 23-year-old averaged 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks in 58 games, offering Utah a cost-controlled anchor under contract through 2026.

As for Knecht, it seems the Lakers like their 2024 first round pick, but understand he may be a necessary trade asset to bring back a center.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: