2. Dalton Knecht, SF/SG
Lakers fans were excited for their team's future when former Tennessee wing Dalton Knecht was drafted 17th overall in the 2024 NBA draft. It was the first time in a long time the L.A. fanbase had a first-round prospect they could legitimately be excited about, and Knecht didn't disappoint with a strong start to his rookie year.
Everything went smoothly for the 6-foot-6 sharpshooter until the trade deadline happened. After Davis was shipped out of town, the center-needy Lakers attempted to acquire standout rebounder Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets, sending Knecht back the other way. The deal, however, Los Angeles almost immediately rescinded the trade once Williams failed his physical exam.
Knecht ended up staying with the Lakers, but it's clear things weren't the same as they were pre-trade.
The 24-year-old rookie played a smaller role down the stretch, playing only 16.6 minutes per outing compared to the 20.7 he averaged before the deadline. His playing time continued to plummet to 10 minutes per outing in the final 12 regular-season games before he was limited to four total minutes in the playoffs, which includes being held off the floor three times.
After trying to move him once, it won't be surprising if the Lakers try trading Knecht again this summer. Los Angeles might not be as high on him as they once were, whereas another team might be willing to pay a premium price for an under-25 three-point threat who was just a first-round pick last year.
If the price is right, don't be shocked if GM Pelinka is willing to part ways with Knecht (again).