Knecht Shines as Lakers Secure Victory Over Jazz
LOS ANGELES — Lakers rookie Dalton Knecht delivered a historic performance during the team’s 124-118 win over the Utah Jazz on Tuesday night, thrilling the crowd of 18,997 at Crypto.com Arena. Knecht scored a career-high 37 points, matching an NBA rookie record by sinking nine three-pointers on just 12 attempts.
The standout moment came late in the game when Knecht hit a 26-foot three-pointer, assisted by LeBron James, which not only boosted his score to 36 but also tied him with Rodrigue Beaubois, Yogi Ferrell, and Keyonte George for the most threes made in a game by a rookie. Knecht sealed his impressive outing with a free throw, marking the eighth-most points scored by a rookie in Lakers history.
Knecht’s scoring surge included four consecutive three-pointers, contributing to a dominant third quarter that saw the Lakers extend their lead from 79-68 to 97-75. Despite a valiant effort from the Jazz, who managed to notch 43 points in the fourth, the Lakers held on for the win.
LeBron James supported Knecht with 26 points and 12 assists, while Anthony Davis shone with 26 points and 14 rebounds. The victory marked the Lakers’ sixth straight win, improving their record to 10-4, and it highlighted their perfect 7-0 start at home— their best since 2001.
The Jazz, now 3-11, saw Lauri Markkanen lead their efforts with 25 points. The Lakers remain undefeated in NBA Cup Group Play, setting their sights on their next matchup against the Orlando Magic on Thursday at 7:30 p.m.
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