Report: Lakers in Talks to Cut Ties with Knecht, Pursue Former Warriors Star

A Deal Brewing in Los Angeles

The Los Angeles Lakers may be preparing for a roster shake-up. According to Forbes’ Evan Sidery, the team has reopened discussions with the Miami Heat about a potential Andrew Wiggins trade ahead of training camp.

That deal could see the Lakers moving on from Dalton Knecht, their former first-round pick, alongside some expiring contracts. Miami, meanwhile, is looking to sweeten the deal with a future first-round pick.

Knecht’s Struggles Make the Case Clear

For Lakers fans, this rumor feels less like speculation and more like common sense. Knecht simply hasn’t lived up to expectations. His Summer League numbers tell the story: just 27.9% from the field and 23.8% from three-point range. Add in shaky defense and tunnel-vision drives, and it’s easy to see why the front office is weighing its options.

Why Wiggins Fits the Bill

On the flip side, Andrew Wiggins brings exactly what the Lakers need: experience, versatility, and scoring ability. The 6-foot-7 forward nearly averaged 20 points per game last season, and his resume includes being an NBA All-Star and a key contributor on Golden State’s 2022 championship team.

For a Lakers squad looking to maximize the final years of LeBron James’ championship window, Wiggins could provide a huge boost on both ends of the floor.

The Bigger Picture

This potential move is about more than swapping two players. It’s a statement. If the Lakers are serious about contending before LeBron eventually moves on, they’ll need to make bold decisions like this one. And with Luka Doncic now part of the purple-and-gold mix, surrounding the duo with proven veterans makes perfect sense.

In short: don’t be surprised if Dalton Knecht’s Lakers tenure ends before it really begins — and Wiggins becomes the latest big-name addition to the Hollywood roster.

 

By Sunday

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