Dalton Knecht has a golden opportunity to prove his value

The Los Angeles Lakers' recent trade with the Charlotte Hornets, centered around Mark Williams and Dalton Knecht, took a dramatic turn when it was rescinded, leaving both players in uncertain territory.

Williams stepped away from the Hornets briefly before making a statement in his return—delivering a victory over the Lakers in his first game back on Wednesday night. For Knecht, the fallout presents a different kind of challenge. Though his rookie season has been marked by inconsistency, staying in Los Angeles gives him a golden opportunity to prove his value.

While the Lakers were in dire need of a reliable center, retaining another floor-spacing wing is never a bad thing—especially on a team led by LeBron James. Historically, LeBron’s teams have thrived with perimeter shooters who can capitalize on open looks. Knecht has already shown flashes of that ability, particularly during a red-hot stretch in early November. 

His 37-point explosion against the Utah Jazz on Nov. 19 remains his standout performance. For the season, he's shooting 35.8 percent from deep on 4.5 attempts per game—a respectable mark for a rookie.

The arrival of Luka Doncic only amplifies the need for perimeter shooting. Doncic's ability to break down defenses and create open shots has elevated many of his teammates in the past. If Knecht can establish himself as a reliable catch-and-shoot threat, he has a clear pathway to meaningful minutes in a competitive Lakers rotation. 

It also helps that both Doncic and LeBron attract significant defensive attention, meaning Knecht will rarely have to create his own shot. Instead, his focus should be on moving off the ball, staying ready to fire and making the most of every opportunity he gets.

The question now is whether he can earn JJ Redick’s trust. The Lakers’ wing depth remains strong, with Austin Reaves and Dorian Finney-Smith leading those competing for playing time. For Knecht to carve out a role, shooting consistency is paramount—but he must also prove he can contribute beyond his jumper. Defensive effort, decision-making and adaptability will be key to his success.

With a packed schedule ahead—including matchups against the Nuggets, Mavericks, Knicks, Celtics and Bucks—the coming weeks will provide ample opportunity for Knecht to make his case. As a rookie, inconsistency is expected, but after nearly being traded, he now has a second chance to prove he belongs in Los Angeles. It’s up to him to seize it.