Lakers Waive Dalton Knecht, Leaving Bronny James as Sole Survivor of 2024 Draft Class
The Los Angeles Lakers waived forward Dalton Knecht on Monday to meet the 15-player roster limit, leaving Bronny James as the only remaining player from their 2024 draft class. Knecht, the 17th overall pick, struggled with defensive deficiencies and limited playing time during the preseason. Head coach JJ Redick cited a changed team dynamic and increased wing depth as reasons for the cut. The decision highlights the Lakers' mismanagement of their 2024 draft selections, as both Knecht and James failed to develop into NBA-caliber players, with James retained primarily due to his name recognition and defensive profile despite poor shooting statistics.
Key points
- The Lakers waived Dalton Knecht on Monday to reduce their roster from 16 to 15 guaranteed contracts ahead of the regular season.
- Knecht, the 17th overall pick in 2024, was cut despite being considered a draft steal, due to persistent defensive shortcomings and lack of impact in the preseason.
- Bronny James, a late second-round pick, was retained over Knecht despite shooting 4-of-16 in the preseason, largely due to his defensive orientation and name recognition.
- Head coach JJ Redick stated that the team's needs and fit changed, noting that the addition of wing players put Knecht in a tough spot.
- The 2024 draft class is viewed as a failure for GM Rob Pelinka, with neither Knecht nor James developing into viable NBA players over two years.
Background
The Lakers previously attempted to trade Knecht to the Charlotte Hornets for center Mark Williams, but the deal was rescinded after Williams failed a physical. This move follows a broader pattern of the Lakers mismanaging their 2024 draft class, which included trading away other lottery picks. The team had previously lost key defender Jordan Goodwin, who broke out with the Phoenix Suns after being let go, highlighting the cost of their draft mismanagement.
How outlets are covering it
Silver Screen and Roll emphasizes Knecht's individual decline and the specific roster fit issues cited by coach JJ Redick, noting that the team acquired more wing players. CBS Sports frames the decision as a systemic failure of the 2024 draft class, arguing that Bronny James was retained not because of his performance, but because the Lakers mismanaged the Knecht situation and lacked the flexibility to cut both players. CBS Sports also points out that James's retention is a poor indicator of his future viability, given his poor shooting and lack of defensive impact.
Why it matters
The waiver of Dalton Knecht marks the end of the Lakers' 2024 draft class, highlighting the organization's struggles with player development and roster management. The decision to keep Bronny James over a first-round pick raises questions about the team's priorities and the effectiveness of their draft strategy under GM Rob Pelinka. It also signals a shift in the Lakers' approach to young players, as they prioritize immediate fit and name recognition over long-term development potential.
What to watch
The Lakers will begin the 2026-27 season with a 15-player roster, with Bronny James as the sole survivor of the 2024 draft class. The team will need to evaluate James's performance in the regular season to determine if he can provide any value. Knecht, now an unrestricted free agent, will seek a new opportunity with another NBA team or in the G-League.
- Lakers waive Dalton Knecht, roster now at 15 players Silver Screen and Roll
- Lakers waive former first-round pick Dalton Knecht ESPN
- Lakers waive Dalton Knecht, will retain Bronny James - The Athletic The New York Times
- Lakers waive Dalton Knecht ahead of season opener, roster deadline after failing to find trade partner Yahoo Sports
- How Bronny James became the last survivor of Lakers' 2024 draft class -- and why that's not a good thing CBS Sports
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