Lakers Newsletter: Rising Star Dalton Knecht Captivates Fans and Teammates
In the latest edition of The Times’ Lakers Newsletter, Dan Woike highlights the soaring optimism surrounding the Lakers as the team enjoys a six-game winning streak and a perfect record in NBA Cup games. This week, Woike zeroes in on rookie Dalton Knecht, whose experience has proven invaluable to the team’s success.
Following the Lakers’ impressive victory over the Pelicans, star player Anthony Davis drew comparisons between Knecht and seasoned players like Damian Lillard. Davis noted that despite being a rookie, Knecht has a mature presence on the court, attributing this to his extensive college experience—over 3,000 minutes of gameplay. Drafted as a sleeper before shining at Tennessee, Knecht’s performance has catapulted him into the spotlight, especially after his standout 37-point game that solidified his reputation as a draft day steal.
Head Coach JJ Redick expressed excitement about acquiring Knecht, emphasizing the importance of developing young talent while also securing players who can significantly contribute from day one. Teammate Austin Reaves echoed this sentiment, sharing his belief that teams often undervalue experienced college players who can seamlessly transition to professional play.
The Lakers reflect on past draft decisions, including missing out on Jaime Jaquez Jr., underscoring the risks associated with prioritizing potential over experience. Knecht, turning 24 this season, brings an effective shooting capability that the Lakers have long sought.
With increasing media attention and confidence in his abilities, Knecht embodies the team’s aspirations for continued success, both on and off the court. As the season progresses, fans eagerly await his contributions to the Lakers’ championship chase, alongside the rock-solid performances from their seasoned stars.
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