Dalton Knecht has emerged as a standout performer for the Los Angeles Lakers, demonstrating why he was considered one of the biggest steals of the 2024 NBA Draft. In a remarkable performance during only his fourth career start, Knecht scored 37 points on an impressive 12-of-16 shooting, including 9-of-12 from three-point range, helping the Lakers secure a 124-118 victory over the Utah Jazz. His nine three-pointers tied an NBA single-game rookie record, a feat previously accomplished by notable players such as Keyonte George, Yogi Ferrell, and Rodrigue Beaubois, all of whom achieved similar success later in their rookie seasons.
Knecht’s scoring burst included an incredible 18 consecutive points for the Lakers, during which he famously celebrated with the Michael Jordan shrug after draining one of his several three-pointers. While much of the preseason focus may have gone to Bronny James as the Lakers’ key rookie, Knecht has quickly proven to be an essential part of the team’s foundation for the future.
Initial expectations deemed him a potential top-10 pick due to his stellar performance at Tennessee, where he averaged 39.7% from beyond the arc. However, concerns about his age—he is 23 years old—may have led some teams to overlook his talent. Fortunately for the Lakers, they focused on acquiring a ready-made player who could contribute immediately rather than solely on long-term potential.
As a team that struggled last season with shooting, Knecht arrives as a timely addition. The Lakers ranked just 24th in the league for three-pointers made, hence Knecht’s shooting expertise is a welcomed improvement. His performance aligns perfectly with the Lakers’ aspirations for the current season, and it appears to have contributed to their solid start, boasting a record of 10-4 and currently on a six-game winning streak.
The Lakers seem to have found a valuable asset in Knecht, who not only fits their needs for immediate production but could also be a cornerstone for years to come. This promising beginning offers a bright outlook for both Knecht and the Lakers as they pursue success this season and beyond.