Potential Trade Packages for Lakers’ Dalton Knecht

Dalton Knecht has been on a wild ride since the Lakers drafted him. The team included him in a trade last year for Mark Williams, but the deal fell apart after Williams failed his physical exam. Knecht returned to Los Angeles and finished the season with the team, though fans noticed a dip in his confidence and overall comfort level.

The former 17th overall pick is full of potential, and it is probably in the best interest of both sides to move on and get a fresh start.

After a failed trade attempt involving Dalton Knecht 11 months ago, sources say he has officially demanded a trade from the Lakers.

The Lakers are expected to grant his wish. pic.twitter.com/ekXUJJypel

— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) January 28, 2026

Potential Trade Targets

The Lakers currently sit sixth in the Western Conference, only 3.5 games behind the second seed. This morning, a report from LA Times reporter Brad Turner stated that the Lakers trade targets include Naji Marshall, DeAndre Hunter, Donte DiVincenzo, Keon Ellis, Herb Jones, and Trey Murphy III.

The key takeaway from the players listed is that the Lakers are looking for wings who can score and defend. Los Angeles has struggled this season with three-point shooting, along with defense, and targeting these players could help resolve the issue.

There are two trades that I feel could help out Los Angeles in the long run for this season and beyond.

Trade Scenario #1

Lakers receive: C Day’Ron Sharpe

Nets receive: F Dalton Knecht, F Adou Thiero, 2032 2nd round pick

This is the ideal trade scenario, in my opinion. Sharpe is a young, athletic big man who is a force on the boards and would be a good piece to have coming off the bench. Sharpe is playing 18 minutes per game this season and is averaging 7.8 points and 6.2 rebounds per game.

Deandre Ayton could be expendable, as he has been struggling and, according to Jake Fischer, is not viewed as the Lakers’ long-term solution at center.

Brooklyn and Los Angeles have a trade history, so a deal between the two teams is not far-fetched.

Trade Scenario #2

Lakers receive: G Keon Ellis, F Doug McDermott

Kings receive: F Dalton Knecht, F Adou Thiero, 2032 2nd round pick

With the Lakers already interested in Ellis, this deal could help both teams. The Kings would get two young players with potential, and the Lakers would get two expiring contracts that free up money during the offseason.

Ellis has collected some DNPs this season, and he is a career 41% three-point shooter. McDermott is a veteran wing who can shoot lights out from deep. These may not be the biggest names, but they can help the Lakers immediately.

With the trade deadline approaching, all signs are pointing to the Lakers making some moves coming up.