The New York Knicks have agreed to sign forward Dalton Knecht to a two-way contract, just days after the Los Angeles Lakers waived the 2024 first-round pick. Knecht’s agents at Excel Sports Management confirmed the agreement on Friday.
Knecht, a 6-foot-6 forward, was selected with the No. 17 pick in 2024 after a standout junior season at the University of Tennessee. He will look for a fresh start with the defending champions and try to tap into the promise he showed as a rookie in Los Angeles.
During a nine-game stretch in November of the 2024-25 season, Knecht averaged 18.9 points on 55.4% shooting (52.2% from 3), 4.9 rebounds and 1.3 assists.
Rookie and Sophomore Numbers
Knecht finished his rookie season averaging 9.1 points on 46.1% shooting (37.6% from 3) and 2.8 rebounds in 19.2 minutes across 78 games. In his second year, his playing time dropped to 10.2 minutes in 54 games. He averaged 4.2 points on 45.5% shooting (34.2% from 3) and 1.4 rebounds.
The 25-year-old Knecht also drew interest from the Cleveland Cavaliers, Sacramento Kings and Minnesota Timberwolves, according to sources.
Roster Move Required
To make room for Knecht, the Knicks will have to waive a two-way player. New York currently has guard Jaden Akins and forwards Kevin McCullar Jr. and Tyler Nickel filling its three allotted two-way roster spots.