Breaking: Following the Denver Nuggets’ elimination in the Conference Semifinals, the Nuggets may acquire Dalton Knecht in a three-team deal with the Lakers.

After a disappointing elimination in the Western Conference Semifinals, the Denver Nuggets are reportedly exploring ways to reshape their roster — and rising Lakers rookie Dalton Knecht has emerged as a potential target in a developing three-team trade scenario.

Nuggets Recalibrate After Early Exit

Fresh off their title defense campaign, the Nuggets fell short in their bid to return to the NBA Finals, prompting the front office to reevaluate the team’s depth and wing scoring. According to league sources, Denver has expressed interest in acquiring Dalton Knecht, the 2024 first-round pick who had an impressive rookie season with the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Trade Framework

While the deal is still in exploratory stages, insiders suggest the proposed trade would involve:

• The Nuggets receiving Dalton Knecht

• The Lakers receiving draft capital and a rotation piece (possibly from a third team)

• A third team — rumored to be the Indiana Pacers or Utah Jazz — helping facilitate salary balance and asset movement

It’s unclear whether the Lakers are willing to part with Knecht, but sources say the team is open to “significant roster tweaks” after another early playoff exit alongside LeBron James’ uncertain future.

Why Knecht Fits Denver’s Plans

Knecht’s ability to stretch the floor and his quick scoring upside make him an ideal fit alongside Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray, especially if the Nuggets are looking to add youth and athleticism on the wings. With veteran contributors like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Michael Porter Jr. becoming increasingly expensive, Denver may be seeking more cost-controlled impact players.

What’s Next

No deal has been finalized, and both teams are expected to continue internal discussions through the NBA Draft and early free agency period. Still, the fact that Knecht’s name is even being floated underscores the aggressive posture the Nuggets are taking this offseason.