Dalton Knecht’s rookie season with the Lakers has already been a rollercoaster ride. And just when it seemed like things were settling in, the NBA trade deadline almost threw everything off track. Reports surfaced that the Lakers were trying to trade him, but the deal never materialized. That’s a tough spot to be in. One moment, you’re a key part of the team’s future. The next? You’re almost getting shipped out.
Now, after experiencing the business side of the league firsthand, he’s also getting some blunt advice on handling it. Paul George—one of the smoothest scorers in the game—didn’t hold back on his podcast. Dallas Rutherford rightly said. “He shouldn’t be salty. He needs to be a professional,” George said. “But there’s gotta be a little bit like, man, these guys, they were able to get rid of me quick.”
That’s a real reaction. No player likes to see their name in trade discussions. It feels like the team is saying, Yeah, we like you, but not enough to turn down a good deal. That kind of thing can sting. However, Knecht isn’t the first rookie to go through this. Just last to last season, Walker Kessler found himself in trade talks despite having a breakout year with the Jazz. It happens all the time.
Mandatory Credit: YouTube/Podcast P
So now, Knecht has a choice—let this shake him up or use it as fuel. Paul George didn’t sugarcoat things, but at the same time, he made sure Knecht saw the bigger picture. “But you’re a rookie,” George pointed out. “You know, so appreciate your blessings for what it is. You’re in the NBA. You’re playing for the most franchise organization, the most storied organization in the NBA. Appreciate that. Go out there and prove now at this point. Prove why you belong, like why that was a bad decision to get rid of you.”
In other words? Shake it off and get to work. And honestly, Knecht is in a great position to do exactly that. The only reason his name came up in trade talks was because he was good enough to be wanted. That’s not a bad thing at all. Instead of taking it personally, he should be thinking, ‘Alright, bet. Y’all thought about trading me? Watch this.’
Paul George also pointed out that Knecht should take this as a sign of respect, not rejection. “To be honest, take it as a compliment,” George said. “You played so well that you had trade bait. You’ve been playing so well that there are teams out there that want you. You have to look at it for what it is.”
And honestly, he’s got a point. Players who don’t let trade talk mess with their heads are the ones who end up becoming stars. Just look at Jaylen Brown. Over the years, he’s been in countless trade rumors. Now? He’s an All-NBA talent leading a title contender. Clearly, Knecht isn’t on that level yet, but this is exactly the kind of situation that separates the good from the great.
What he does do next? That’ll say everything.
Lakers rookie Dalton Knecht overcomes trade rumors—Will he rise or fold?
Of course, dealing with trade rumors is one thing. However, staying mentally locked in is a whole different challenge. For young players like Dalton Knecht, the uncertainty of almost being traded can take a serious mental toll. Yes, a serious mental toll!
That’s why NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has been vocal about the league’s commitment to player support. Especially for those caught in trade speculation. “For players who are involved in trades, how disruptive it can be. I’m sure it’s equally as disruptive to think you had been traded and not to have been traded—disruptive for the player, disruptive for their teammates,” Silver explained.
To address this, the NBA has expanded its mental wellness initiatives, including access to sports psychologists, mentorship programs, and resources designed to help players stay focused through high-pressure situations. This support could be a major asset for Knecht looking to revive his career and prove everyone wrong. Honestly, the Lakers could use a bit of Knect in the line-up.
Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
After nearly being dealt with at the deadline, Knecht has a golden opportunity to turn this experience into motivation. With the right mindset, he could use this as fuel to elevate his game in the second half of the season. The question is, will Knecht rise to the challenge, or will the trade rumors linger in the back of his mind?
And more importantly, do Lakers fans believe he has what it takes to carve out a long-term role in L.A.? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and let’s get the conversation going!
The post Dalton Knecht Advised “To Be Professional” After NBA Official Relieves Lakers Rookie of Mental Struggles appeared first on EssentiallySports.
