There’s always more happening in the NBA than what fans see on the surface-especially with the Los Angeles Lakers. While rumors swirl and trade machines work overtime, the franchise appears to have made a quiet but crucial decision about its young core.
Let’s start with the positive: rookie sharpshooter Dalton Knecht is officially staying put. According to multiple sources, including NBA insider Sam Amico, the Lakers are not looking to include Knecht in trade talks. After a solid rookie year shooting 37.6% from beyond the arc, the 24-year-old is emerging as more than just a role player-he’s now part of L.A.’s long-term vision.
Knecht isn’t just saying the right things-he’s putting in the work. New head coach J.J. Redick has already started training with him, including shooting drills. “It’s good getting in the gym with your head coach. Learn from him-he’s a great shooter,” Knecht said recently.
While Knecht’s future looks steady, things got murky around Austin Reaves. Recently, online rumors suggested Reaves wasn’t thrilled to share the court with new teammate Luka Doncic.
The speculation went viral quickly, prompting Reaves’ agent to issue a firm denial: “Austin has nothing but the utmost respect for Luka… Any suggestion to the contrary is completely false.” Reaves averaged over 20 points and nearly 6 assists last season. By all appearances, he’s thriving next to superstar talent, not clashing with it.
Spotlight turns to Summer League
Now, with the Lakers’ 2025 Summer League roster revealed, the attention shifts to development-and possible trade value. Headlining the team are Bronny James and Dalton Knecht, two rookies with very different narratives but equal expectations.
Bronny’s inclusion is especially notable. After missing part of his college season due to a cardiac issue, he bounced back in the G League, averaging 21.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists across 11 games. That includes a 39-point performance that turned heads.
“Just lock into what you have going on right now,” Bronny said, quoting advice from his father, LeBron James. He’s not just learning; he’s also adjusting to life under a massive spotlight-one that’s only getting hotter.
This Summer League feels less like preseason tune-up and more like a proving ground. For Knecht, it’s a chance to validate the Lakers’ trust. For Bronny, it’s about showing he belongs-on the court and in trade talks. Either way, the Lakers aren’t just planning for October. They’re building something, right now, under the Vegas sun.
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