JJ Redick hints at final roster cut ahead of Lakers’ season opener vs. Warriors

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick hinted that Dalton Knecht could be the odd man out as the team trims its roster to 15 players ahead of the regular season opener against the Golden State Warriors. Redick noted that while Knecht has improved over the past two seasons, the team's changing needs and roster construction have complicated his fit. Knecht faces significant competition from other wing players, making him a potential candidate to be traded or waived.

The Lakers must reduce their roster from 16 players to meet the NBA's 15-player regular season limit. Knecht previously saw a trade to the Charlotte Hornets for center Mark Williams rescinded in February 2025 due to a failed physical. As opening night approaches, Los Angeles must either execute another trade to address frontcourt depth or waive a player, leaving Knecht's immediate future with the franchise uncertain.