Los Angeles Lakers rookie Dalton Knecht envisions himself playing alongside LeBron James for several more years.

Trade rumors swirled around Knecht midseason. He was nearly involved in a deal to the Charlotte Hornets for rookie center Mark Williams, alongside Cam Reddish and a 2031 first-round pick, though the trade fell through due to Williams failing a physical.

Apr 30, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts during the first half in game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images / Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images