In the 2023-24 season, the Lakers finished with a record of 47-35 and had to compete in the play-in tournament to secure a spot in the playoffs. The team earned the seventh seed but was defeated in five games by Denver in the first round. Following the season, the Lakers decided to part ways with head coach Darvin Ham after his two seasons with the team.
To fill the vacant coaching position, the Lakers brought in JJ Redick as their new head coach. In the 2024 draft, the team used their first-round pick to select small forward Dalton Knecht from Tennessee. During a preseason game against the Suns, Knecht impressed by scoring 35 points in overtime. This performance showcased his abilities and the Lakers are considering giving him a significant role in the regular season. Knecht’s sharpshooting skills make him a valuable offensive asset for Los Angeles.
Dalton Knecht’s Standout Performance in the Second Half
DALTON KNECHT TONIGHT:
35 POINTS
7 REBOUNDS
8 3PM
10/18 FG pic.twitter.com/Lraa4EY47g— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) October 18, 2024
During his college career, Dalton Knecht played two seasons at the University of Northern Colorado before transferring to Tennessee for his final year of eligibility. In the 2023-24 season, Knecht averaged a career-high 21.7 points per game and was recognized as the SEC Player of the Year and a Consensus All-American. His impressive college performance led to him being chosen by the Lakers as the 17th overall pick in the 2024 draft.
Through his first four preseason games with the Lakers, rookie SF Dalton Knecht was averaging 13.8 points per game. In a game against the Suns, Knecht started slow but erupted for 30 points in the second half, including 20 consecutive points in the fourth quarter and overtime. This stellar performance helped the Lakers secure an overtime victory against the Suns. Knecht’s 35 points tied with Anthony Davis as the team’s highest scorers against the Suns. His exceptional play has demonstrated his potential for a significant role in the upcoming season, and coach JJ Redick acknowledged Knecht’s impressive performance. Knecht is expected to be a valuable asset off the bench for the Lakers in the 2024-25 season.
