NBA Offseason Update: Los Angeles Lakers Eye $107 Million Toronto Raptors Star Guard, Set to Part Ways with Dalton Knecht
As the NBA offseason heats up, the Los Angeles Lakers have emerged as a team likely to make a bold move in the trade market. With their sights set on strengthening their roster, the Lakers are reportedly eyeing Toronto Raptors star guard Fred VanVleet, a $107 million player with a proven track record. The acquisition of VanVleet could provide the Lakers with the type of leadership and scoring ability they need to build on their recent successes. However, in order to make room for this potential trade, the Lakers are also expected to part ways with rookie Dalton Knecht.
Fred VanVleet: A Proven Playmaker and Scorer
Fred VanVleet, who signed a four-year, $107 million contract extension with the Toronto Raptors in 2020, has developed into one of the most consistent and impactful guards in the NBA. Known for his dynamic scoring ability, strong defense, and leadership on the court, VanVleet would be a major asset to any team, especially the Lakers. In the 2023-24 season, VanVleet averaged 19.3 points, 7.0 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game, all while maintaining a steady presence on the defensive end. His experience as a key figure on the Raptors during their 2019 NBA Championship run has only added to his value as a veteran presence on a contending team.
For the Lakers, adding VanVleet would address some of their key needs, particularly at the point guard position. With LeBron James continuing to play at an elite level, VanVleet could provide the perfect backcourt complement, allowing James to focus more on scoring and playmaking without shouldering the full load of ball handling. VanVleet’s ability to shoot from the perimeter and make plays for others would open up the floor and give the Lakers a much-needed offensive spark.
Dalton Knecht: A Rookie Who Might Not Fit Into Lakers’ Plans
Dalton Knecht, a rookie who was recently added to the Lakers’ roster, seems to be on the verge of being moved. Although Knecht showed promise in his time with the Lakers during the offseason and training camp, it appears that the team has decided that he is not yet ready to contribute at the NBA level. Knecht’s limited experience and development as a player may lead the Lakers to look for a trade partner who is willing to take on the young prospect.
With VanVleet’s potential addition, the Lakers would likely need to offload Knecht in order to clear cap space and make the finances work. As a result, the Lakers could look for a trade partner willing to take a chance on the rookie’s upside or potentially negotiate a deal that could involve other assets, such as draft picks or future considerations. This move would allow the Lakers to make the most of their window of contention, which is centered around their aging core of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
A Strategic Move for the Lakers’ Title Hopes
For the Lakers, acquiring a player of VanVleet’s caliber could be the final piece needed to challenge for an NBA title in 2024-25. With the Western Conference growing increasingly competitive, the Lakers need to continue upgrading their roster to keep pace with teams like the Denver Nuggets, Phoenix Suns, and Golden State Warriors. By acquiring a proven star like VanVleet, the Lakers could solidify their backcourt while creating a more balanced and potent offense.
As the offseason unfolds, the Lakers’ pursuit of Fred VanVleet could be a game-changing move for their title hopes. If they can make this deal work and part ways with Dalton Knecht, the Lakers will add a much-needed star to their roster and position themselves for another deep playoff run in the coming season. The next few weeks will be crucial as the Lakers navigate the trade market in search of their final pieces.
