Blinksportsnews247
The Los Angeles Lakers dominated the headlines during trade season after dealing 2020 NBA champion Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks for superstar guard Luka Doncic. Los Angeles also attempted to trade rookie Dalton Knecht to the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for big man Mark Williams. However, the team announced Saturday night that the deal had been called off after Williams reportedly failed his physical with the Lakers.
“Mark Williams’ physical with the Lakers showed multiple issues and the team failed him on the exam, sources tell ESPN,” Shams Charania reported. “The physical was not failed due to his back, however.”
Knecht returned to LA in an unexpected turn of events but was ruled out of Monday night’s win against the Jazz due to personal reasons.
According to Jovan Buha of The Athletic, Knecht spoke with Lakers head coach JJ Redick before the game to discuss his mindset following the failed trade. Per Buha, the rookie guard told Redick he needed more time to process the situation before returning to action.
Knecht, 23, was selected 17th overall in the 2024 NBA draft and quickly became a fan. The 6-foot-7 guard scored a career-high 37 points in a November win against the Jazz, tying the record for most three-pointers made by a rookie in a single game (7). Knecht currently ranks sixth in rookie scoring this season, averaging 9.4 points per game while shooting 46.5% from the field.
Blinksportsnews247
