​The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly examining trades involving forwards Dalton Knecht and Jarred Vanderbilt, according to NBA insider Evan Sidery. With two second-round picks secured from the Deandre Ayton trade with the Washington Wizards, Los Angeles could package those assets for a starting-caliber wing or another needed piece, such as a versatile wing defender. Vanderbilt has surfaced as a potential trade target for the Lakers, who are actively exploring options alongside Knecht in early-offseason trades.
Following the Ayton deal, the Lakers could leverage the extra second-round selections to pursue a reliable wing, a move that would complement a roster reshaped by Rob Pelinka this summer. The club has already seen substantial turnover, with half of its projected starting five exiting in free agency, including four-time champion LeBron James. The goal remains clear: build a stronger supporting cast around Luka Dončić. The Lakers also secured Walker Kessler on a four-year, $130 million contract to anchor the center position.
As Pelinka pushes to finalize the roster, the team may need to trade Knecht or Vanderbilt to free up financial flexibility or acquire a veteran wing and a capable backup center. The Lakers now own three second-round picks in total, assets many teams view as near-equivalent to a first-round selection, which heightens the likelihood that Knecht or Vanderbilt could be moved to address their needs. While there is speculation about how the revamped Lakers will perform, Dončić reportedly remains excited about the franchise’s new direction.