Los Angeles Lakers Waive Rookie Dalton Knecht

The Los Angeles Lakers have parted ways with Dalton Knecht following an unsuccessful attempt to trade him to the Charlotte Hornets.

Updated on Oct. 19, 2026 in Basketball

Los Angeles Lakers Waive Rookie Dalton Knecht

The Los Angeles Lakers have officially waived Dalton Knecht, a decision that comes after a potential trade with the Charlotte Hornets for Mark Williams was rescinded. The trade was called off after Williams failed a physical examination.

Why it matters

The roster move marks an abrupt end to the tenure of the 17th overall pick from the 2024 NBA Draft. His departure follows a season where he struggled to maintain the production levels seen during his collegiate career.

Knecht was drafted 17th overall in 2024 after averaging 21.7 points and shooting 40% from the 3-point line at Tennessee. He averaged 4.2 points in his most recent professional season.

The players

Los Angeles Lakers

This professional basketball franchise competes in the Western Conference of the NBA and is based in Southern California.

Dalton Knecht

He is a professional basketball player who previously played for the University of Tennessee before being drafted into the NBA.

Charlotte Hornets

This professional basketball organization operates out of North Carolina and competes in the Eastern Conference of the NBA.

Mark Williams

He is a professional basketball player who occupies the center position in the NBA.

The details

The decision to cut Knecht follows the collapse of a trade deal with the Charlotte Hornets intended to bring center Mark Williams to Los Angeles. With the trade invalidated by the failed physical, the organization opted to move on from the rookie.

Dalton Knecht played for Tennessee during the 2023-24 season.
The Los Angeles Lakers drafted Knecht in 2024.
Knecht completed his rookie 2024-25 season with the team.
The official announcement occurred on October 19, 2026.
The 2026-27 NBA season begins on October 20, 2026.

Season Trajectory

This roster change signals a significant shift in the depth chart for the Lakers just as the new season begins. By voiding the trade and cutting the rookie, the organization must now adjust its rotation strategy to compensate for the lost draft investment.

The waiving of the 17th overall pick creates an immediate vacancy on the roster that the team must fill before the season opener. Fantasy managers should monitor upcoming waiver wire updates to see which players move into the team's rotation.

The takeaway

Teams frequently prioritize immediate roster health and flexibility when trades collapse due to medical failures. Fans should expect the front office to announce a replacement signing shortly to round out the bench.