Former Lakers Wing Dalton Knecht Signing With Knicks

Former Los Angeles Lakers wing Dalton Knecht has agreed to sign a two-way NBA contract with the New York Knicks, according to ESPN's Shams Charania. The move comes after the Lakers waived the 2024 first-round pick to reduce their roster from 16 guaranteed contracts to 15. Knecht subsequently cleared waivers to become an unrestricted free agent before landing with the defending champion Knicks.

Knecht had fallen out of favor with Lakers head coach JJ Redick after a proposed trade to the Charlotte Hornets was rescinded during his rookie season. His playing time decreased significantly in his second campaign, averaging just 10.2 minutes across 54 appearances. The Lakers also prioritized newly drafted Baylor wing Cameron Carr, making Knecht expendable.