NBA Trade Rumor: Lakers Could Land 6-Foot-11 Center from Magic in Exchange for Rookie Dalton Knecht to Support Luka Doncic and LeBron James in Championship Bid

The Los Angeles Lakers are looking ahead to the offseason, where they aim to bolster their center position with a defense-first player, potentially involving rookie wing Dalton Knecht in a trade.

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Orlando Magic Can be the Ideal Destination for Dalton Knecht

The Orlando Magic could be a potential destination for Dalton Knecht, according to Bleacher Report's Eric Pincus, after the Lakers' previous trade attempt with the Hornets for Mark Williams fell through.

“Knecht is on the older side as a 24-year-old rookie, but he has clear NBA skills,” Pincus wrote. “The Magic’s biggest need is shooting, and that’s Knecht’s top strength.”

Dalton Knecht averaged 9.1 points per game, shooting 46.1% overall and 37.6% from three. Despite limited playing time late in the season, his offensive potential makes him a valuable trade asset, particularly for a win-now team like Orlando that lacks perimeter threats.

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Lakers Could Bring in Goga Bitadze in Exchange for Dalton Knecht

The Orlando Magic, with their core players under long-term deals, might trade Goga Bitadze for Dalton Knecht. Bitadze, a 6'11" center, offers the interior toughness and rim protection the Lakers need, averaging 7.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game.

The Lakers need upgrades at multiple positions but lack surplus tradeable assets and have limited draft capital and salary cap flexibility. Acquiring impact players like Goga Bitadze through strategic trades could be a smart solution.

Dalton Knecht offers a unique blend of shooting and upside at a relatively affordable cost, making him an attractive target for teams like the Magic, who face cap constraints but seek to bolster their roster for a playoff push.

Dalton Knecht's name will likely feature prominently in NBA offseason trade talks. His value could help the Lakers find a frontcourt solution they've been seeking.