Calls Mount for Dalton Knecht Trade After Lakers' Loss to Warriors

Calls Mount for Dalton Knecht Trade After Lakers' Loss to Warriors originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Dalton Knecht is entering his second NBA season. Despite playing in 78 games during his rookie season, Knecht saw his role fluctuate quite a bit. He was also nearly traded to the Charlotte Hornets at the February trade deadline, but the deal was rescinded after Los Angeles failed Mark Williams on his physical.

Given his up-and-down rookie campaign, Knecht was placed on the Lakers' Summer League roster to get more reps before his second professional season. Tipping off with California Classic play on Saturday, the Lakers were at Chase Center for a Summer matchup against the Golden State Warriors.

LA fell 89-84 to Golden State.

Second-year guard Bronny James is also on LA's roster this summer, but he was held out for the California Classic opener. This left Knecht with even more opportunities, as he was one of the more experienced players in the Lakers' starting five on Saturday.

A three-year college player, Knecht is 24 years old, placing him on the older side at Summer League. Lakers fans were hoping that would translate to some strong play, but that did not take place in the summer opener.

Playing 30 minutes, Knecht scored 10 points on 3-for-13 shooting, prompting Lakers fans to call for a trade.

KNECHT AIRBALL FIRST PLAY OF THE HALF I NEED THAT TRADE DONE TONIGHT PELINKA

— ✧.* (@HoodiiBron) July 6, 2025

"Trade dalton knecht," one fan posted.

"Alright yeah trade Knecht he is no good," said another.

"At this point trade Knecht and a first for Wiggins," one added.

"Maybe the lakers were on to something when they tried to trade knecht," wrote one.

"Trade Knecht Shake and Gabe for anything," one implored.

"Yeah trade knecht @Lakers," wrote another.

Related: Lakers Facing Backlash for Bronny James Decision Before Warriors Game

Related: Steph Curry's Message to LeBron James Turns Heads After Warriors-Lakers Trade Report

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 6, 2025, where it first appeared.