JJ Redick Hints Dalton Knecht Likely Cut by Lakers
The Lakers coach acknowledged roster changes have put the third-year wing in a difficult position.
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick has indicated that third-year wing Dalton Knecht is the most likely player to be cut as the team finalizes its roster before the season opener.
"I think the biggest thing is the team changed," Redick said. "Needs changed, the fit changed. I think he’s gotten better as a player the last two years. I just think coming into this year, we added a lot of wings, and he’s in a tough spot right now."
The Lakers are required to trim their roster from 16 players to 15 before the opening game against the Golden State Warriors. With an abundance of wing players on the team, including Matisse Thybulle, Ziaire Williams, Adou Thiero, Cameron Carr, and Jake LaRavia, Knecht appears to be the odd man out.
Knecht was previously involved in a trade in February 2025 that would have sent him to the Charlotte Hornets. However, the deal was rescinded when Mark Williams failed his physical. Since that trade, Knecht has reportedly struggled to regain his previous confidence with the Lakers.
Jarred Vanderbilt, another wing player, is also on the roster, but his name has been circulated in trade rumors. Redick suggested that Vanderbilt has a legitimate chance to secure a role in the Lakers' rotation.
If the Lakers cannot find a trade partner for Knecht before Opening Night, waiving him is the alternative to meet the roster requirement.