Dalton Knecht found himself at the center of a whirlwind trade saga involving the Los Angeles Lakers and Charlotte Hornets. Initially traded to the Hornets in exchange for Cam Reddish, a 2030 pick swap, and the Lakers' 2031 first-round pick, Knecht prepared to make his new start. However, the Lakers unexpectedly rescinded the trade, citing a failed physical assessment of 7-foot center Mark Williams, who was supposed to join the Lakers. The move left Knecht in limbo, caught between two teams in one eventful week.
Knecht's journey began when he was informed of the trade and instructed to report to Charlotte. He flew from Los Angeles to Charlotte on Thursday, ready to join his new teammates. Despite the trade, he appeared on the bench in street clothes for the Lakers' victory over the Utah Jazz on Monday in L.A. The plan was for Knecht to debut for the Hornets against the Detroit Pistons on Sunday. However, in a dramatic turn of events, the Lakers revoked the trade, and Knecht was told to return to Los Angeles.
As Knecht navigated this unexpected detour, he flew from Charlotte to Detroit on Saturday, still anticipating his first game with the Hornets. Upon his return, his Lakers teammates greeted him warmly with hugs and check-ins. Knecht humorously remarked that it felt like making his debut all over again for the team that drafted him 17th last June.
"This league is a business and trades happen," said Austin Reaves, capturing the essence of the NBA's unpredictable nature.
Despite the turmoil, Knecht remained focused on his game. He scored 10 points in 17 minutes against the Utah Jazz on Wednesday, demonstrating resilience and professionalism. His performance drew praise from teammates and opponents alike.
"I've never seen something like this happen. So, this is the first for me. At the end of the day, he's got to come in and be a professional. Go out there and do his job, and I thought he was good tonight. I don't think he played a game in probably a week or so. Can't wait to get him back out there acclimated with everything that we're doing because he's going to help us be successful," added Reaves.
"I thought his spirit was good," remarked Cam Reddish, highlighting Knecht's positive attitude amidst uncertainty.
The Hornets have reached out to the NBA to contest the Lakers' claim regarding Mark Williams' failed physical. The situation leaves both teams seeking clarity as they navigate the aftermath of a rescinded deal.
"He played well. We're not going to talk about it anymore. We've talked about it. He's in a good spot. We're good," Reddish further commented on Knecht's position with the team.
Knecht himself remains focused on playing basketball, expressing his desire simply to compete and contribute wherever he lands.
"I just want to go hoop. I told that to JJ and Rob," Knecht stated, emphasizing his readiness to move forward regardless of team affiliations.
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