Dalton Knecht
#4SF · Los Angeles Lakers
Fan Verdict
Grade this player:
Career StatsC-
| Year | GP | PPG | RPG | APG | SPG | BPG | FG% | 3PT% | FT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career | 126 | 7.2 | 2.3 | 0.7 | 0.3 | 0.1 | 45.8% | 36.1% | 75.0% |
| 2025-26 | 48 | 4.2 | 1.4 | 0.3 | 0.2 | 0.2 | 44.8% | 30.7% | 70.0% |
| 2024-25 | 2 | 2.5 | 1.5 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 40.0% | 25.0% | 0.0% |
Current Contract
Length
3 years
Total Value
$8.2M
AAV
$2.7M/yr
Contract Value Index (CVI)
Dalton Knecht's contract with the Los Angeles Lakers grades out as a slightly below-market contract, earning a D+ CVI grade. At $2.7M per year over 3 years, this is a minimum-level contract. Dalton's deal falls in the minimum-level tier for NBA Small Forwards. At 24 years old, Dalton is in or near prime years, which supports the investment. The team paid a premium that will need to be justified by on-court production. The team will need Dalton to significantly improve to justify this financial commitment.
Performance Analysis
Dalton Knecht earns a C- Performance grade, reflecting average production for a Small Forward. Across 126 career games, Dalton has averaged 7.2 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 0.7 assists per game. Dalton's strongest metric is FG% at 4582.8, compared to the NBA Small Forward median of 46.0. The biggest area for improvement is APG at 0.7, below the Small Forward median of 4.0. Among 118 NBA Small Forwards graded this season, Dalton ranks 116th in overall performance. Dalton will need to elevate key areas of the game to justify a larger role with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Current Sentiment
Dalton Knecht's rookie season has disappointed fans and media expecting more from the 17th pick. Playing sparse minutes and struggling on court, his C- grade reflects consistent underperformance and limited opportunities. At $2.7M annually, he's viewed as a sunk cost rather than valuable asset currently. Trade deadline inactivity and benching narratives dominate coverage, signaling organizational doubt in his development. Fan confidence is pessimistic; most see him as a draft miss needing G-League development time.
Transaction History
No transactions found for this player.