Dalton Knecht’s Time in L.A. Appears to Be Winding Down - Could the Cavs Be His Next Stop?
Dalton Knecht’s run with the Los Angeles Lakers is nearing its end - and while nothing’s been made official just yet, all signs are pointing toward a trade before the deadline.
The second-year guard has reportedly requested a move, and the Lakers are expected to grant it. One scenario gaining traction would send Knecht to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for a 6-foot-7 forward - and that forward appears to be De’Andre Hunter.
According to recent reports, the Lakers are still in the mix for Hunter, a player they’ve had their eye on. But this isn’t a simple one-to-one swap.
The Brooklyn Nets have surfaced as a potential third team to help with the financial logistics, which tells you this deal has layers. Hunter is widely expected to be on the move before the February 5 trade deadline, and with multiple teams involved, the clock is ticking.
Inside the Cavs' front office, there’s reportedly some interest in Knecht as a buy-low candidate - a young player with potential who could help them get out from under Hunter’s contract. That’s a key factor here. Cleveland may be more motivated to move Hunter’s deal than they are to chase immediate on-court upgrades, and Knecht could be the kind of low-risk, high-upside piece that fits that agenda.
Now, let’s talk about Hunter. A season ago, he looked like the prototypical three-and-D wing every contender covets - a former lottery pick who averaged 17.0 points per game while shooting 47.0% from the field and a scorching 40.5% from three. That version of Hunter could slot into just about any rotation in the league.
But this season has told a different story. While his defensive chops are still intact - he’s long, physical, and knows how to stay in front of his man - his outside shot hasn’t been nearly as reliable.
Through 42 games, he’s hitting just 30.9% from deep. For a player whose value hinges on spacing the floor and defending wings, that dip in efficiency raises questions.
Still, teams are intrigued. Even with the shooting slump, Hunter’s size, defensive versatility, and track record make him a name worth monitoring as the deadline approaches. And for the Lakers, who have been searching for wing help to complement their stars, Hunter could represent a calculated swing - especially if they’re parting with a player like Knecht who’s already requested a change of scenery.
As for Knecht, a fresh start might be just what he needs. He’s shown flashes of scoring ability and athleticism, and in the right system, he could carve out a real role. Cleveland, with its mix of veterans and young talent, might be a good landing spot - especially if the Cavs see him as more than just a contract balancer.
There’s still time for things to shift before the deadline, but the pieces are starting to move. And if this deal comes together, it could be one of those trades that quietly reshapes the rotation for multiple teams down the stretch.