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Lakers waive former first-round pick Dalton Knecht before season opener

The Los Angeles Lakers made a roster move ahead of their season opener by waiving former first-round pick Dalton Knecht on Monday. Knecht, selected 17th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, had struggled to secure a consistent role in the rotation over the past two seasons, averaging just 4.2 points and 10.2 minutes per game last year.

Despite early promise—including a rookie outburst of 37 points and nine three-pointers in a 2024 game against the Utah Jazz—his production declined after a trade to Charlotte was later rescinded. With the Lakers now at the NBA’s maximum roster limit of 15 players, Knecht’s limited preseason contributions (14 combined minutes in two games) sealed his departure, though coach J.J.

Redick noted he was granted an excused absence from practice on Monday.

Meanwhile, the Lakers’ backcourt depth remains in flux as Collin Sexton returned to full practice participation for the first time since training camp began. Though he felt physically ready, Sexton—who missed all five preseason games due to a lower-leg injury—declined to commit to Wednesday’s season opener against the Golden State Warriors.

The 6-foot-1 guard, acquired to back up Luka Dončić, described his recovery as steady but cautious, emphasizing a gradual return to five-on-five competition. Bronny James, another 2024 draft pick (55th overall), also sat out practice but remained on the roster, contrasting Knecht’s waiver.

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