Image Source: ESPN
Lakers forward Dalton Knecht has quickly found a new opportunity after Los Angeles waived its former first-round pick. The New York Knicks have agreed to sign Knecht to a two-way contract, according to ESPN, giving the 25-year-old wing a chance to revive his NBA career with the defending champions.
The move came just days after the Lakers released Knecht. His departure from Los Angeles marked a surprising turn for a player who showed significant promise during his rookie season. Now, he will attempt to earn a larger role in New York and prove that his scoring ability can translate into consistent NBA production.
Dalton Knecht gets a fresh start after Lakers exit
Knecht was selected No. 17 overall by the Lakers in the 2024 NBA draft after an impressive junior season at the University of Tennessee. The 6-foot-6 forward entered the league with a reputation as a confident scorer, capable shooter and smart offensive player.
His best stretch came during a nine-game run in November of the 2024-25 season. Knecht averaged 18.9 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.3 assists during that span while shooting 55.4% from the field and 52.2% from 3-point range. Those numbers offered a glimpse of the offensive impact many expected from him after draft night.
However, maintaining that momentum proved difficult. Knecht completed his rookie season averaging 9.1 points and 2.8 rebounds in 19.2 minutes per game across 78 appearances. He shot 46.1% overall and 37.6% from beyond the arc.
A difficult second season in Los Angeles
Knecht’s playing time dropped significantly during his second season. He appeared in 54 games and averaged only 10.2 minutes per contest, producing 4.2 points and 1.4 rebounds per game. His shooting numbers also dipped, with Knecht making 45.5% of his attempts overall and 34.2% from 3-point range.
The reduced role eventually led to the Lakers moving on from the young forward. Although his time in Los Angeles ended earlier than expected, his past scoring bursts made him an attractive option for teams searching for perimeter shooting and offensive upside.
ESPN reported that the Cleveland Cavaliers, Sacramento Kings and Minnesota Timberwolves also showed interest in Knecht. Ultimately, the Knicks won the race for his services and offered him an opportunity to remain in the NBA while developing within their organization.
Why the Knicks move matters for Knecht
A two-way contract provides Knecht with a valuable chance to rebuild his confidence. He can spend time with New York’s NBA roster while also receiving consistent minutes with the team’s G League affiliate. That balance could help him regain rhythm, sharpen his decision-making and demonstrate that his shooting touch remains a major weapon.
New York already has a competitive roster, so immediate playing time will not be guaranteed. Still, the Knicks could benefit from adding a forward who has shown the ability to score quickly and space the floor. If Knecht performs well in practices and developmental games, he could position himself for a larger role later in the season.
The contract also gives the Knicks flexibility. Two-way players can provide depth during injuries, schedule congestion and difficult stretches of the regular season. Knecht’s size and offensive skill set could make him a useful option when the team needs additional shooting on the wing.
Knicks must make a roster decision
New York currently has Jaden Akins, Kevin McCullar Jr. and Tyler Nickel occupying its three two-way roster spots. To complete the signing, the Knicks must waive one of those players and create room for Knecht.
That decision adds another layer to the transaction. While Knecht receives a fresh opportunity, another young player will lose his current two-way roster position. The move highlights the intense competition for developmental spots across the NBA, where a single roster opening can change the direction of several players’ seasons.
For the Lakers, Knecht’s exit closes a brief chapter involving a former lottery-level prospect. For Knecht, the Knicks deal represents an important reset. His shooting numbers, age and previous flashes of scoring give him a foundation, but his next challenge will be turning short bursts of production into dependable performances.
What comes next for Dalton Knecht?
Knecht’s immediate focus will be adjusting to a new system, learning New York’s terminology and proving himself in limited opportunities. The Knicks will likely evaluate his defense, consistency and ability to play without the ball as closely as his scoring.
If he can defend multiple positions, knock down open 3-pointers and make quick decisions, Knecht may earn opportunities with the NBA team. His path is not guaranteed, but the move gives him a strong platform to reset his career and remind the league why the Lakers selected him in the first round.
Frequently asked questions
Why did the Lakers waive Dalton Knecht?
The source reports that the Lakers waived Knecht just days before he joined New York. His playing time had declined during his second season, and his production fell compared with his promising rookie campaign.
What type of contract did Dalton Knecht sign?
Knecht agreed to a two-way contract with the New York Knicks. The arrangement allows him to move between the NBA roster and the team’s G League affiliate.
What were Knecht’s best NBA numbers?
During a nine-game stretch in November 2024, Knecht averaged 18.9 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.3 assists while shooting 52.2% from 3-point range.
Which other teams showed interest in Knecht?
According to ESPN, the Cleveland Cavaliers, Sacramento Kings and Minnesota Timberwolves also expressed interest before Knecht chose the Knicks.
