Los Angeles Lakers explore trade of Dalton Knecht for Jericho Sims

The Los Angeles Lakers are exploring trade options to reduce their roster from 16 to 15 standard contracts before the upcoming NBA season deadline. Central to these discussions is the potential movement of former first-round pick Dalton Knecht.

According to reports from NBA insider Jake Fischer, the Lakers and the Milwaukee Bucks have held exploratory discussions regarding a trade framework. The proposed deal would involve sending Knecht and second-round draft capital to Milwaukee in exchange for center Jericho Sims. This move would provide the Lakers with much-needed frontcourt depth and athleticism.

However, there is reported pessimism regarding whether a deal will be finalized. If the Lakers are unable to secure a trade by the Monday deadline, they may be forced to waive Knecht. The Bucks are also managing roster constraints and are reportedly looking at various moves to avoid waiving contracted players, including potential deals involving Caris LeVert and Kevin Porter Jr.