The Milwaukee Bucks are engaged in preliminary trade discussions with the Los Angeles Lakers for sharpshooter Dalton Knecht. This news comes as the Bucks prepare for their final preseason game against the Indiana Pacers on October 16, following a 104-125 loss to the Chicago Bulls on October 14.
The proposed framework would see the Bucks acquire former first-round pick Dalton Knecht, along with second-round draft capital, from the Lakers. Milwaukee would send backup center Jericho Sims to Los Angeles in return. Sources indicate these talks are exploratory and a deal is currently viewed as unlikely to be completed. If no trade materializes, the Lakers may consider waiving Knecht to meet roster deadlines.
Sims, a 6-foot-10, 250-pound big man, averaged 5.0 points on 78.4% shooting and 5.5 rebounds in 19.7 minutes per game last season. He offers high-energy defense and vertical spacing, traits the Lakers seek for their frontcourt rotation behind Luka Doncic.
Knecht, selected 17th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, is a shooter whose role diminished in Los Angeles. He averaged just 4.2 points in 10.2 minutes per game last season, shooting 34.2% from three-point range. His preseason performance in 2026 also saw struggles.
A scout's assessment pointed to Knecht's on-court processing speed as a primary hurdle in JJ Redick's system. The evaluation suggested he isn't instinctual enough to play freely, limiting his rotation minutes. For a Bucks team looking to add perimeter shooting, he represents a potential reclamation project.
The trade speculation unfolds against Milwaukee's preseason schedule. Their last outing was a 104-125 defeat to Chicago. Other preseason results include a 105-90 loss to Charlotte on October 11, a 128-126 win over Oklahoma City on October 7, and a 97-116 loss to Minnesota on October 5.
Acquiring Knecht would be a bet on unlocking his collegiate shooting form. The Lakers have previously discussed deals involving him with other teams, including the New York Knicks. For the Bucks, it's a low-risk exploration of adding a specialist skill to the roster. The team's immediate focus shifts to the upcoming game in Indiana, a final tune-up before the regular season.
Jericho Sims' potential departure highlights the roster decisions facing Milwaukee's front office. His athleticism and rebounding could benefit the Lakers, making him a logical trade candidate. Whether this specific framework advances remains uncertain, but it signals the Bucks' active search for roster improvements.
