# Los Angeles Lakers roster competition

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/los-angeles-lakers-roster-competition
> Updated: 2026-10-01T22:08:31.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

The Los Angeles Lakers are managing roster constraints as they approach the NBA’s 15-man limit. Dalton Knecht is facing uncertainty regarding his future with the team following a decline in production and playing time since his rookie period in late 2024.

Reports indicate that Knecht is a candidate to be waived if the franchise cannot secure a trade, potentially being used to acquire a veteran big man like Zach Collins. He is currently competing for final roster spots against players including Bronny James and Jaden Hardy. While coach JJ Redick has praised Knecht’s training camp approach, insiders suggest that Jaden Hardy is more likely to secure a spot on the roster over Knecht.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-01: Los Angeles Lakers weigh waiving Dalton Knecht amid roster crunch

Dalton Knecht faces potential dismissal or trade from the Los Angeles Lakers as the team navigates a roster crunch and intense competition for playing time.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-lakers-weigh-waiving-dalton-knecht-amid-roster-crunch

### 2026-10-01: Los Angeles Lakers expected to keep Jaden Hardy over Dalton Knecht

Jaden Hardy is expected to win a final roster spot with the Los Angeles Lakers, beating out Dalton Knecht as the team works to meet the NBA's 15-man roster limit.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/los-angeles-lakers-expected-to-keep-jaden-hardy-over-dalton-knecht

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Cite as: Los Angeles Lakers roster competition. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/los-angeles-lakers-roster-competition