Fans Notice the Same Thing About Dalton Knecht During Luka Doncic’s Debut

Los Angeles Lakers rookie guard Dalton Knecht has experienced a whirlwind season filled with highs and lows. After being selected No. 17 overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, Knecht has played 48 games, averaging 9.4 points and 3.1 rebounds per game. However, his journey took an unexpected turn when he was briefly traded to the Charlotte Hornets, only for the deal to be rescinded, bringing him back to Los Angeles

Dalton Knecht’s Trade Saga: From L.A. to Charlotte and Back

The Lakers initially included Knecht in a deal to acquire Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams as part of a separate trade following their blockbuster acquisition of All-NBA guard Luka Dončić from the Dallas Mavericks. The move was meant to bolster the Lakers’ roster for a deep playoff run. However, the trade fell apart when Williams failed his physical exam, leading the Lakers to back out of the deal and Knecht to return to Los Angeles.

While NBA trades are part of the business, few players experience the emotional rollercoaster of being traded and then untraded within days. For a rookie like Knecht, this was undoubtedly a challenging experience, as he had to mentally prepare for a move to a new city and team, only to be thrown back into the Lakers’ rotation unexpectedly.

Lakers’ Decision to Rescind the Trade

Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka addressed the media following the trade reversal, emphasizing that the organization had thoroughly evaluated Williams’ injury history before agreeing to the deal. However, a final medical examination revealed significant concerns, forcing the Lakers to cancel the trade. According to NBA insiders, Williams’ lingering foot and back issues raised red flags for the team’s medical staff.

Meanwhile, the Charlotte Hornets expressed disappointment with the failed trade and are reportedly exploring options to challenge the Lakers’ failed physical ruling. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the Hornets have been in contact with the NBA league office regarding potential next steps. The team is frustrated with how the situation unfolded, believing Williams is still capable of playing at a high level.

JJ Redick’s Support for Dalton Knecht Amid Emotional Whirlwind

With Knecht unexpectedly back in purple and gold, Lakers head coach JJ Redick wasted no time in reassuring him. Understanding the mental and emotional toll such an event can have on a player, Redick emphasized empathy and team unity as he checked in on Knecht’s well-being.

“I spoke with him this morning. I expressed to him the empathy and grace that I will give him and have for him right now,” Redick told reporters. “He has obviously been through a whirlwind of emotions as a rookie over the last few days. We believe in the strength of the group, and having him around today is important.”

For a first-year player, experiencing trade uncertainty can be mentally taxing. While veterans are often accustomed to the business side of the NBA, young players like Knecht must learn to navigate the harsh realities of professional basketball.

Dalton Knecht’s First Game Back: Social Media Buzz

When the Lakers faced the Utah Jazz on Monday night, it was not only Luka Dončić’s Lakers debut, but also Knecht’s first game back after the trade drama. Fans quickly noticed that his body language on the bench appeared distant, sparking speculation on social media.

Many Lakers fans pointed out that Knecht looked disinterested, uncomfortable, or even upset as he sat on the bench. Some speculated that he was still processing the emotional whirlwind of being traded and then returning to the team within days.

• “Dalton Knecht doesn’t seem too thrilled to be back in LA after the Lakers traded him to Charlotte, then rescinded the deal. His body language isn’t great here,” one fan tweeted.

• “Imagine getting dumped, then having to go to a party with all of your ex’s friends and family—and you can’t leave for a few hours. That’s Dalton Knecht on the Lakers bench tonight,” another fan joked.

• “Dalton Knecht looks like he’s waiting to be put on a flight back to Charlotte,” a third fan added.

It remains unclear when Knecht will officially return to the court, but fans will be closely watching how he reintegrates into the Lakers’ system.

Knecht’s Season Performance and Lakers’ Adjustments

Despite the drama, Knecht remains a promising young player with significant upside. The former Tennessee standout has been a solid contributor off the bench, showcasing his three-point shooting and ability to space the floor.

• 48 Games Played

• 9.4 Points Per Game

• 3.1 Rebounds Per Game

• 35.8% Three-Point Shooting

• 37-Point Career-High Performance on November 19

With Knecht back in the lineup, the Lakers will have to readjust their rotation and find ways to maximize his development while focusing on their playoff push. His return adds depth to a roster that now features a revamped backcourt with Dončić’s arrival.

What’s Next for Dalton Knecht and the Lakers?

As the Lakers move past the trade deadline, they will shift their focus to the remainder of the season. The unexpected trade reversal has shaken up their roster plans, but Knecht has an opportunity to prove his value and earn more playing time.

For Knecht, this experience serves as a valuable lesson about the business side of the NBA. While he may have felt unsettled by the sudden move, it’s now a chance for him to channel that energy into his performance on the court. With JJ Redick’s mentorship and the Lakers’ support system, Knecht could turn this setback into motivation to solidify his role on the team moving forward.

The Lakers return to action Wednesday night against the Utah Jazz, with Knecht listed as a game-time decision. Whether or not he plays, all eyes will be on him—especially his body language and confidence as he reintegrates into the team. 

While Knecht is back in L.A., the Hornets aren’t giving up on the trade just yet. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Charlotte is in discussions with the NBA about potentially challenging the Lakers’ failed physical assessment of Mark Williams.

“The Charlotte Hornets have been in contact with the NBA as they explore options to dispute the Los Angeles Lakers’ failed physical assessment of center Mark Williams,” Charania reported. The Lakers return to action Wednesday night against the Jazz, with Knecht listed as a game-time decision. Whether or not he plays, all eyes will be on him—especially his body language on the bench.