Lakers Eye RJ Barrett Trade, May Move Dalton Knecht Again This Summer -

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March 7, Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly considering a bold move to bolster their roster for the 2025-26 season, with former New York Knicks star RJ Barrett emerging as a potential target. According to recent reports, the Lakers may explore trading rookie forward Dalton Knecht, along with other assets, to acquire Barrett from the Toronto Raptors.

The Lakers have seen a remarkable turnaround since acquiring Luka Dončić in a trade earlier this season, winning seven consecutive games and climbing to the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference with a 39-21 record. The dynamic duo of Dončić and LeBron James has been instrumental in the team’s success, with the Lakers boasting a league-leading defensive rating of 106.2 over their recent winning streak.

However, the Lakers’ front office, led by general manager Rob Pelinka, appears eager to further strengthen the roster. Knecht, who was nearly traded to the Charlotte Hornets at the deadline, could be included in a package alongside Gabe Vincent, Jarred Vanderbilt, and draft capital to facilitate a deal for Barrett. The 24-year-old Raptors forward, who was the No. 3 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, is averaging 21.7 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 5.7 assists this season, showcasing his potential as a versatile scorer and playmaker.

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Barrett’s future in Toronto has been a topic of speculation, especially with the Raptors building around Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram. HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto reported that Barrett was discussed in trade talks earlier this season, making him a potential candidate to be moved this summer.

For the Lakers, adding Barrett could provide another offensive weapon alongside Dončić and James, further solidifying their championship aspirations. Knecht, meanwhile, could offer the Raptors a promising young player with three-point shooting and positional flexibility. As the off-season approaches, the Lakers’ pursuit of Barrett could be a storyline to watch, signaling their commitment to going all-in for another title.

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