The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly seeking to trade forwards Jarred Vanderbilt and Dalton Knecht prior to the start of the NBA season. The team currently has 16 players on its roster and needs to reduce that number to the league-mandated 15.
Both Vanderbilt and Knecht have been subjects of trade speculation previously. A trade involving Knecht to the Charlotte Hornets was reportedly agreed upon in February 2025, but it was rescinded three days later when Mark Williams, the center acquired in the deal, failed his physical. Knecht then returned to the Lakers.
Vanderbilt has two years remaining on his contract, valued at $48 million, which could complicate trade negotiations. Knecht, on the other hand, is entering his third year and is still under his rookie contract. Since the rescinded trade, Knecht has seen reduced playing time and production, leading to his current status as a potential trade candidate.
The Lakers' roster moves come as general manager Rob Pelinka continues to assess and adjust the team's lineup. The team had expressed interest in acquiring a versatile wing defender like Jonathan Kuminga, indicating a desire to address needs on the perimeter before the season begins. The recent four-day minicamp in Slovenia, attended by the entire roster, may have provided further clarity on player availability and trade potential.