Guard Dalton Knecht is entering his second summer with the Los Angeles Lakers, who kick off their play on Saturday at the California Classic in San Francisco. This year, he is joined by Bronny James, who is gaining confidence as he embarks on his second season in the NBA after experiencing the pressures of playing alongside his father, LeBron James. The two made headlines last season as the first father-son duo to compete together in an NBA game.
Bronny feels much more assured in his abilities this year and is eager to display the skills he has worked on during the offseason. As the Lakers prepare to take on the Golden State Warriors, Bronny is looking forward to playing without the weight of expectation that accompanied his rookie year. “Last year it was a crazy environment for me to step in and produce right off the rip, like being nervous too,” he shared. This time around, he is ready to play more freely, confident in his understanding of the game.
Knecht, reflecting on his own growth, has been sharpening his shooting skills, having averaged an impressive 37.6% from beyond the arc last season. He remains optimistic about the upcoming games, particularly in Las Vegas, where the Lakers will face high-profile competition, including Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick from the June draft, in the Summer League.
The Lakers will also be missing rookie Adou Thiero, who is recovering from a left knee injury but is expected to be cleared for training camp soon. Meanwhile, Bronny is focused on making strides in his game after averaging 2.3 points per game last season. He is determined to be better this summer, emphasizing a strong commitment to conditioning and being a valuable teammate.
Knecht pointed out that the Lakers’ fan base consistently supports them, creating a lively atmosphere no matter the opponent, which adds to their motivation. Both players are looking to build on their experiences and shine during the summer league as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season.
This article highlights the growth and potential of young talent within the Lakers, showcasing a promising future that fans can look forward to with excitement and hope.