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Lakers trade rumors heat up as Opening Night quickly approaches

With Opening Night approaching, the Los Angeles Lakers are facing a roster crunch that has intensified trade speculation. The team, currently carrying 16 players, is actively seeking to move forward Jarred Vanderbilt and Dalton Knecht before the season begins.

Vanderbilt, who is in the final year of a four-year, $48 million deal and owed $12 million this season, has reportedly been difficult to trade, leaving the Lakers with limited options. Meanwhile, Knecht—selected 17th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft—has seen his role diminish since the Lakers attempted (and later rescinded) a trade to Charlotte in February 2025.

Though he flashed promise as a rookie, averaging 18.9 points and 4.9 rebounds in nine games late last season, his performance has since stalled, prompting the team to explore new opportunities for him elsewhere.

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