Dalton Knecht Sends Message After Lakers’ Major Loss

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Jul 2, 2025 8:19 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers have dominated headlines all week after what has already been an eventful offseason. Following a painful playoff exit in Aprl, LA has been sweating things out to build a competitive roster for next season. So far, the front office’s decision-making has kept fans guessing as they watch key pieces come and go.

One of the more surprising developments came on Monday when free agent Dorian Finney-Smith opted to sign a four-year, $53 million deal with the Houston Rockets (via ESPN's Shams Charania).

The veteran forward had become a reliable presence for the Lakers, and his departure leaves a gap on the wing that the franchise now hopes to fill with fresh additions. That includes Jake LaRavia, who is set to join Los Angeles from the Sacramento Kings after agreeing to terms in free agency.

Speaking with reporters after Summer League practice on Wednesday, Lakers guard Dalton Knecht weighed in on the team's latest roster changes. Knecht admitted he was disappointed to see Finney-Smith, who spent just one season in LA, join the Rockets.

Despite the loss, Knecht expressed optimism about working with LaRavia and the new-look roster.

“Losing Doe sucks,” Knecht said. “But at the end of the day, it just happens.”

Dalton Knecht was disappointed to hear about Dorian Finney-Smith signing with the Rockets, but looks forward to welcoming Jake LaRavia to Los Angeles. “Losing Doe sucks” pic.twitter.com/K2g6lVi1bz
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) July 2, 2025

The 2024 17th overall pick, who has drawn trade speculation in recent weeks, remains focused on doing whatever it takes to contribute as the Lakers continue to finalize their plans before training camp.

Knecht’s rookie season with the Lakers was a rollercoaster. The 24-year-old guard averaged 9.1 points, shot 37.6 percent from three, and appeared in 78 games last season, ranking among the top rookies in 3-pointers made.

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

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