Image Source: Hoops Rumors
Dalton Knecht is officially leaving the Los Angeles Lakers after the team waived the former first-round pick on October 19, 2026. The decision allows the Lakers to finalize their 15-man regular-season roster after entering the day with 16 players on standard guaranteed contracts.
The move was first reported by Shams Charania of ESPN, and the Lakers later confirmed it through an official announcement. Knecht’s release closes a disappointing chapter for a player who once appeared to be an important part of the franchise’s future.
Dalton Knecht Waived as Lakers Solve Roster Crunch
Los Angeles faced a difficult roster decision following an offseason filled with additions. The team explored multiple options, including potential trades designed to move two players for one roster spot. However, no suitable deal materialized before the regular-season deadline.
According to the report, the Lakers also searched for a trade partner willing to take on Knecht’s contract. The 25-year-old carried a $4.2 million cap hit for the 2026/27 season, and the team apparently determined that his contract had negative trade value in the current market.
Los Angeles had limited draft capital available to attach to a trade. Rather than surrender one or more of its three remaining second-round picks, the Lakers chose to waive Knecht and absorb his guaranteed salary.
A Promising Start Fades Quickly
Knecht was selected 17th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft after a standout college career at Tennessee. He made an encouraging impression early in his rookie season, showing confidence as a scorer and the ability to stretch defenses with his shooting range.
His role, however, gradually declined. During the 2025/26 season, Knecht averaged 4.2 points and 1.4 rebounds in 10.2 minutes per game across 51 appearances. His three-point production also dipped, as he converted only 34.2% of his 2.1 attempts per game.
Those numbers were particularly damaging for a player whose reputation was built around perimeter shooting. With limited defensive impact and inconsistent offensive production, Knecht struggled to secure a reliable place in the Lakers’ rotation.
The former Tennessee standout was briefly involved in a trade sending him to the Charlotte Hornets at the 2025 in-season deadline. That deal was rescinded two days later after the Lakers rejected the results of Mark Williams’ physical. Knecht ultimately remained in Los Angeles, but his long-term position with the franchise became increasingly uncertain.
Contract Consequences and Free-Agent Outlook
Waiving Knecht carries important financial and contractual consequences. The Lakers will eat his guaranteed salary for the upcoming season, while his $6.45 million rookie-scale team option for 2027/28 will be voided.
Because of the release, Knecht is expected to become an unrestricted free agent on Wednesday. He will also be eligible to sign a two-way contract with another NBA team, giving him a potential route back into the league.
- Knecht was the 17th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.
- He averaged 4.2 points and 1.4 rebounds last season.
- His three-point accuracy fell to 34.2% in 2025/26.
- His 2027/28 rookie-scale team option is now voided.
- He could pursue a two-way contract with another team.
Who Remains on the Lakers’ Roster?
Knecht’s departure ensures that other back-of-the-roster players, including Jaden Hardy, Bronny James and Jarred Vanderbilt, will begin the regular season with Los Angeles. The Lakers now have 15 players on standard contracts and three players occupying two-way spots.
The decision is likely to generate debate among Lakers supporters, particularly because Knecht was a recent first-round selection. Still, the front office appears to have prioritized roster flexibility and avoided sacrificing future draft assets simply to move off his contract.
For Knecht, the next step will be finding a team willing to invest in his shooting potential. A change of scenery could offer him a clearer role, especially with a rebuilding club or an organization known for player development. His ability to regain his perimeter touch may determine whether he earns a standard contract or begins his next opportunity on a two-way deal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Lakers waive Dalton Knecht?
The Lakers waived Knecht to reduce their roster from 16 guaranteed players to the 15-player regular-season limit. The team could not find a workable trade and chose to absorb his salary instead.
What were Dalton Knecht’s statistics last season?
Knecht averaged 4.2 points and 1.4 rebounds in 10.2 minutes per game over 51 appearances during the 2025/26 season.
What happens to Knecht’s contract now?
His guaranteed 2026/27 salary remains on the Lakers’ books, while his $6.45 million team option for 2027/28 is voided following the waiver.
Can Dalton Knecht sign with another NBA team?
Yes. Knecht is expected to become an unrestricted free agent and may be eligible to sign either a standard contract or a two-way deal with another team.
