The Lakers have a decision to make about their future, and it’s not just about LeBron or Luka. There’s a certain sharpshooting rookie who’s been flying under the radar. Earlier this year, in February, rookie Dalton Knecht was supposed to head to the Hornets after the Lakers agreed to bring Mark Williams. But since there were concerns about Williams’ physical, Knecht’s stay in Los Angeles was extended. Come the 2025 offseason, Knecht’s trade rumors are strong again.

Per Anthony Irwin of Clutch Points, the 24-year-old rookie, who was blindsided by that failed trade, could be on the move this summer. “Dalton Knecht’s name has come up in plenty of trade discussions this summer after he was sent out in that infamously rescinded Mark Williams deal last season,” Irwin reported this Thursday.

However, while the trade machine keeps churning out wild scenarios, the Lakers’ front office might have already made up its mind for Knecht. The 24-year-old small forward did have some moments in his rookie year. Knecht, in the limited chances he got, averaged 9.1 per game on 46/37/76 shooting splits. And if the recent report is anything, Dalton Knecht is here to stay in L.A.

According to Sam Amico of Hoops Wire, “The Lakers intend to hang onto Dalton Knecht.” No flip-flopping, no last-minute trade bait- just a straight-up commitment to the 24-year-old who quietly shot 37.6% from deep as a rookie. Dalton Knecht himself isn’t playing coy either. “Just showing what I can do,” he said about suiting up for Summer League. “Feel like I kind of showed a little bit throughout my rookie year, but just keep building on top of that.”

And if you think that’s just PR talk, consider this: Knecht and new head coach JJ Redick have already been grinding in the gym together. “We’ve been doing shooting drills and stuff like that,” Knecht revealed. “It’s good just getting to the gym with your head coach. Learn from him, because he’s a great shooter as well.” Translation? The Lakers aren’t just keeping him, they’re investing in him.

But here’s where it gets spicy. Because while Knecht’s future seems steady, Austin Reaves just had to shut down some interesting rumors. Out of nowhere, whispers started swirling that Reaves wasn’t exactly thrilled sharing the court with Luka Doncic. Cue the agent intervention. Reaves’ camp blasted the narrative into oblivion with a statement: “Austin has nothing but the utmost respect for Luka and truly enjoys playing alongside him. Any suggestion to the contrary is completely false. He’s excited to be on the court with Luka- both now and in the future.”

And let’s be real. Reaves has zero reason to complain. The man just averaged 20.2 points and 5.8 assists next to a superstar. If anything, this feels like classic offseason noise, the kind that pops up when teams are too quiet. But with Reaves locked in and Knecht sticking around, the Lakers’ core is starting to take shape.

So, where does that leave us? With a team that’s clearly betting on continuity- young talent, star power, and all. But don’t think for a second that the drama stops here. Because up next? A little Summer League showcase that’s about to turn into must-watch TV.

Bronny James steps into the spotlight alongside Dalton Knecht

What if the actual pressure isn’t during the regular season… but in July, under the Vegas sun, with everyone watching and trades on the table? That’s the reality Bronny James just walked into. As the Lakers revealed their 2025 Summer League roster, all eyes zeroed in on two names. Headlining it? Bronny James and Dalton Knecht, both of whom have not just completed their rookie years, but are now also being presented as potential trade chips. And with the Lakers hunting win-now talent, this lineup feels less like a training ground and more like a showcase.

The Lakers’ Summer League roster, complete with fresh faces and underlying storylines, includes Darius Bazley, RJ Davis, and Cole Swider alongside Bronny and Knecht. It’s a mix of two-way hopefuls, G League talent, and players fighting for a seat at the NBA table. And while Bronny’s presence was expected, it’s what the Lakers do with him that’s raising eyebrows.

Because he’s not just LeBron’s son anymore. After missing some of his college tenure recovering from a cardiac arrest, Bronny bounced back with a solid G League run: 21.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists over 11 games. That includes a 39-point explosion against Santa Cruz and a 17-point showing versus Giannis’ Bucks.

“Just lock into what you have going on right now,” Bronny said, quoting advice from his dad. “That’s what’s gonna get me better and keep me focused.” But here’s the kicker! When LeBron made headlines by opting into his Lakers deal, Bronny was the last to know. “I was like, ‘Yeah, I have no idea what you’re talking about,’” he admitted. Whether that’s focus or next-level secrecy, one thing’s clear: the Lakers are putting Bronny front and center. And in this league, that’s never just about development. It’s a statement.