In the 2024 NBA Draft, the Los Angeles Lakers chose Dalton Knecht with the 17th overall pick. Though he exhibited early signs of talent, the rookie has struggled to find consistency on the court.
Prior to the Lakers’ 106-102 win against the Clippers, head coach JJ Redick mentioned that Knecht would not feature in the game’s rotation. Unexpectedly, however, the young guard ended up playing.
While his contributions weren’t particularly show-stopping, Knecht’s willingness to be prepared when called upon was acknowledged by Redick. After the match, Redick praised Knecht’s professionalism despite the challenges associated with varying playing time.
“I told Dalton before the game that he probably wasn’t going to be in the rotation tonight. But to stay ready—that’s a professional basketball player right there. That’s big time, Dalton,” Redick remarked.
Interesting JJ told Dalton Knecht that he was not gonna be apart of the rotation last night, but he credited him for staying ready and providing solid mins.
H/T @Lakers pic.twitter.com/AEaEXHhAVR
— Washed LakersvsHaters (@notlakersgm) March 1, 2025
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his role, Knecht put forth a commendable performance. He recorded eight points, one rebound, one assist, and one steal, shooting 3-of-6 from the field and making 2-of-3 from three-point range.
Dalton Knecht Reflects On His Rollercoaster Journey
Knecht’s inaugural season has been anything but straightforward. Recently, he was traded to the Hornets in exchange for Mark Williams, but the Lakers later reversed the trade and welcomed Knecht back. The rapid developments left him little time to come to terms with the changes.
“I got drafted here, so L.A. means a lot. So, hearing that, I go to Charlotte in the morning with one of my guys and get introduced, and start meeting all those people and then fly out to Detroit to what was called my ‘debut game,’ to then, now I’m flying back to L.A. Rob called me and said, ‘You’re coming back,’” he explained regarding the trade.
This season, Knecht has suited up for 55 games with the Lakers, averaging 8.8 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game. As the Lakers choose to retain him, Knecht now has another opportunity to make a mark in the team’s colors.
Image Source: JJ Redick @ Instagram
