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3 NBA Teams That Should Pursue Dalton Knecht If the Lakers Put Him Back on the Trade Block

The Los Angeles Lakers recently rescinded their trade that sent Dalton Knecht to the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for Mark Williams, keeping the talented rookie in LA—for now. However, it’s becoming increasingly clear that the Lakers view Knecht as a valuable trade asset rather than a long-term piece of their roster.

With Luka Dončić now in the mix, the Lakers may still look to upgrade their roster in the near future. Knecht, averaging 9.4 points per game on 46.4% shooting, has shown promise as a young sharpshooter and could draw interest from multiple teams looking for offensive firepower.

Here are three teams that should target Dalton Knecht if the Lakers decide to move him again.

1. Portland Trail Blazers: A Young Sharpshooter for a Rebuilding Team

The Portland Trail Blazers have had moments of success this season, winning six of their last 10 games before falling to the Minnesota Timberwolves. However, they are still in rebuilding mode, making them an intriguing trade partner for the Lakers.

Why Portland Should Target Knecht:

  • His three-point shooting ability would provide much-needed offensive depth.

  • Knecht would be a great complement to young stars like Shaedon Sharpe and Anfernee Simons.

  • Portland could offer valuable trade pieces, including Deandre Ayton or Jerami Grant, to help the Lakers add size and versatility.

The Trail Blazers are building around young talent, but they still need efficient scoring threats. Knecht’s ability to spread the floor and knock down threes would be invaluable alongside their young core.

If Portland prioritizes the future while still remaining competitive, Knecht would be a smart acquisition.

image_67b168be47e03 3 NBA Teams That Should Pursue Dalton Knecht If the Lakers Put Him Back on the Trade Block

2. Utah Jazz: Injecting Youth Into a Struggling Franchise

At 12-39, the Utah Jazz are among the worst teams in the league, clearly far from championship contention. Instead of holding onto veterans, Utah could look to acquire more young talent—and Knecht would be a strong addition.

Why Utah Should Target Knecht:

  • The Jazz need young, offensive-minded players to build around.

  • Knecht fits well within their rebuilding timeline and could develop alongside players like Keyonte George and Taylor Hendricks.

  • A potential trade could involve Collin Sexton, John Collins, or Walker Kessler, giving the Lakers depth while Utah secures a promising scorer.

The Jazz have struggled to establish a clear direction post-Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert. Knecht’s offensive versatility could provide them with a reliable perimeter scorer who could grow with their young core.

If the Jazz decide to move some of their veterans, Knecht would be a great long-term investment for them.

image_67b168beb295d 3 NBA Teams That Should Pursue Dalton Knecht If the Lakers Put Him Back on the Trade Block

3. Toronto Raptors: A Floor Spacer for a Rising Eastern Conference Team

Despite their 16-36 record, the Toronto Raptors have made it clear they want to remain competitive after trading for Brandon Ingram at the deadline. Adding Knecht to their backcourt could further solidify their young core.

Why Toronto Should Target Knecht:

  • He would fit well alongside Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram, providing additional scoring depth.

  • The Raptors need perimeter shooting to compete in the Eastern Conference.

  • Knecht is young enough to be a long-term piece while still contributing immediately.

Toronto’s roster has been in constant transition, but adding a high-upside shooter like Knecht would make them more dangerous offensively. His ability to knock down shots off the catch would open up space for Barnes and Ingram to operate inside.

If Toronto continues to build a playoff-ready roster, targeting Knecht in the offseason could be a low-risk, high-reward move.

image_67b168bf2f6cf 3 NBA Teams That Should Pursue Dalton Knecht If the Lakers Put Him Back on the Trade Block

Other Potential Trade Destinations for Dalton Knecht

While Portland, Utah, and Toronto stand out as logical destinations, several other teams could benefit from acquiring Knecht, including:

4. Brooklyn Nets

  • The Nets need more scoring threats to complement Mikal Bridges and Cam Johnson.

  • Knecht would fit their system as a catch-and-shoot specialist.

5. New Orleans Pelicans

  • The Pelicans lack consistent outside shooting, and Knecht could be a key addition to support Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram.

  • A trade involving Larry Nance Jr. or Dyson Daniels could be beneficial for both teams.

6. San Antonio Spurs

  • Victor Wembanyama needs more shooters around him, and Knecht’s ability to space the floor would help San Antonio’s offensive scheme.

  • The Spurs have plenty of draft capital and young players to make an attractive offer.

Final Thoughts: What’s Next for Dalton Knecht and the Lakers?

While Dalton Knecht remains a Laker for now, it’s evident that his future in Los Angeles is uncertain. With the trade deadline behind them, the Lakers may wait until the offseason to re-evaluate their roster.

If the Lakers re-enter trade talks, these three primary teams—Portland, Utah, and Toronto—should be aggressive in pursuing him. Whether Knecht becomes a key piece in LA’s rotation or is moved again for win-now assets, he remains one of the most intriguing young players on the market.

Should the Lakers hold onto Knecht, or is another trade inevitable? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—multiple teams will be watching closely. 

Could Knecht Still Have a Future in Los Angeles?

Although trade speculation continues, there’s still a possibility that Knecht remains in L.A. for the long haul. His ability to stretch the floor, provide instant scoring, and adapt to different roles could make him a valuable piece for a contending team. If he continues to develop under JJ Redick’s system, he might eventually carve out a bigger role in the Lakers’ lineup.

However, with the team in a win-now mode, the front office may prioritize established players over long-term projects. If the right trade opportunity presents itself, Knecht could very well be on the move once again—this time, for good.

Will the Lakers Regret Trading Knecht?

If the Lakers trade Knecht and he blossoms into a high-level scorer elsewhere, the team could face criticism for letting go of a young asset too soon. The NBA has seen many young players traded early in their careers, only to become stars with new teams. If Knecht develops into an elite perimeter scorer with consistent minutes and opportunities, Lakers fans might look back and wonder what could have been.

The Unpredictable Nature of the NBA

Ultimately, the NBA is a business—and Knecht’s situation is a perfect example of how quickly things can change. Whether he stays with the Lakers or finds a new home, his talent and potential make him an exciting player to watch. Will he become a key contributor in L.A., or will another franchise unlock his full potential? Only time will tell.

For now, all eyes remain on the Lakers and their next moves as the trade market continues to evolve.

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