The Los Angeles Lakers confirmed that they have exercised their team option on Dalton Knecht, extending his rookie deal through the 2026-27 NBA season – a decision that arrives just hours before their clash with the Golden State Warriors.
By activating the option, the Lakers take on a $4.2 million salary commitment for the 2026-27 campaign.
The move signals confidence that the 23-year-old guard can rediscover his early-season form and contribute meaningfully as part of the Lakers‘ long-term plans.
Knecht‘s first year in the league had its highs and lows. He impressed early and earned a starting role before eventually losing it to Rui Hachimura. His rhythm dipped after that transition, and while he showed flashes of recovery, his consistency remained in question.
Then the Lakers reportedly agreed to trade him for Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams before the trade deadline. Although the deal was rescinded, the experience reportedly shook Knecht, who admitted understanding it as a “business decision.”
How good is Dalton Knecht?
In his rookie campaign, Knecht averaged 9.1 points and 2.8 rebounds per game while shooting 46.1 percent from the field and 37.6 percent from three-point range.
Those numbers demonstrated potential for an end-of-rotation scorer capable of spacing the floor and providing energy, so expectations were high entering his second season – but his recent performances have not met that optimism.
During the Summer League, he averaged 10.3 points on 27.9 percent shooting overall and just 23.8 percent from beyond the arc, prompting questions about his shot selection, and the preseason provided another difficult stretch.
Despite receiving extended minutes, Knecht posted averages of 8.7 points per game on 32 percent shooting from the field and 24 percent from three-point distance. Defensive struggles further clouded his readiness for a larger role.
Still, the Lakers appear to see value, as the organization believes Knecht‘s shooting and athleticism could prove useful over time. If he can regain the confidence that marked the start of his rookie year, the $4.2 million commitment could represent strong value.
Should Knecht continue to underperform, the contract remains modest enough to move in a future trade or waive if necessary. His future in the rotation will likely depend on his adaptability and ability to contribute efficiently on both ends of the court.
Recent roster changes also impact Knecht‘s situation. The additions of Marcus Smart and Jake LaRavia, combined with Jarred Vanderbilt‘s improved health, have reduced available minutes on the wings.
Yet LeBron James‘s four-week absence opens an opportunity for Knecht to earn renewed trust.
Date, time, and where to watch Lakers 2025/26 opening night game
With more minutes available and expectations high, Knecht‘s response could define his second season. Los Angeles will need his energy and shot-making as they prepare to face the Warriors and navigate the early stretch of the campaign without their star.
The Lakers‘ 2025-26 NBA season opener against the Golden State Warriors tips off at 22:00 ET/19:00 PT on Tuesday, October 21.
Fans can catch the action live on ESPN and Spectrum SportsNet.
Read the full article here
