The Los Angeles Lakers are approaching the 2024-25 season with minimal alterations from the previous year, during which they were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs in five games. Among the most significant changes are the replacement of head coach Darvin Ham with JJ Redick and the selection of Dalton Knecht with the No. 17 overall pick in the NBA Draft.
Knecht is far from a typical 17th overall pick. He stood out as one of the top players in college basketball last season and was anticipated to be a top-10 selection on draft night. Nevertheless, his age, as he is already 23 and will turn 24 during his rookie season, discouraged teams from choosing him earlier. This fortunate situation allowed the Lakers to secure him at the No. 17 spot, especially as they had considered trading the pick beforehand.
This rookie sharpshooter is projected to join the Lakers’ rotation from the first game of the season. Redick elaborated on why he believes Knecht will carve out a role in the NBA during an appearance on The Lowe Post with ESPN’s Zach Lowe:
“Even just with like Dalton [Knecht], to me, I told him this the other day, he is in the 1% of shooters. He’s in the 1%. He has a skill that is just hard to find. He’s gonna have a chance to earn a spot in the rotation.”
In recent years, the NBA has gradually shifted away from specific specialists, embracing positional and skill versatility. However, there will always be a place in the league for players who excel in a specific area and can contribute in other ways as well.
The Lakers have several specialists on their roster, including Knecht as a 3-point shooter and Jarred Vanderbilt for perimeter defense. Both players are poised to significantly impact the Lakers this season. Additionally, Redick, known as one of the original 3-point specialists, will have the opportunity to work closely with Knecht to help him reach his full potential.
JJ Redick says lack of depth is not a concern for Lakers
Much has been discussed regarding the Lakers’ limited changes this offseason and the potential implications for their depth. An early wave of injuries has already sparked concerns about the Lakers’ roster, but Redick remains unfazed.
He believes the team faces more challenges related to health and availability than actual depth. He is confident that the Lakers can manage these issues effectively, as he sees ample contributors available when health concerns inevitably arise.
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Dalton Knecht: The Lakers’ Rookie Sharpshooter Poised to Make an Impact in 2024-25 Season
Who is Dalton Knecht?
Dalton Knecht is a rising star in the NBA, having recently joined the Los Angeles Lakers as a rookie sharpshooter. Born in Springfield, Illinois, Knecht played college basketball at Colorado State University, where he developed a reputation for his impressive shooting skills and versatility on the court. Known for his deep range and ability to create his own shot, Knecht is expected to bring a new dynamic to the Lakers’ roster in the upcoming 2024-25 season.
Why Dalton Knecht is a Key Addition for the Lakers
The Lakers have a long-standing tradition of excellence in the NBA, and with Knecht’s arrival, they are looking to bolster their roster to make a championship run. Here’s why he’s a key addition:
- Shooting Prowess: Knecht averaged over 20 points per game in his last college season, showcasing his ability to score from beyond the arc.
- Size and Versatility: At 6’6”, he possesses the size to play multiple positions, making him a valuable asset for both offense and defense.
- Work Ethic: Known for his relentless practice regime, Knecht has continuously improved his game, making him a player to watch this season.
Dalton Knecht’s Skill Set
Knecht’s game is characterized by several impressive skills that make him a perfect fit for the Lakers. Here’s a breakdown of his key attributes:
Shooting Ability
- Three-Point Shooting: Knecht has consistently demonstrated his ability to shoot from long distances, making him a significant threat from beyond the arc.
- Mid-Range Game: His effectiveness in the mid-range area allows him to stretch defenses and create space for teammates.
Defensive Skills
- On-Ball Defense: Knecht’s size and agility enable him to guard multiple positions, which is crucial for the Lakers’ defensive schemes.
- Instincts: His awareness on the court allows him to anticipate plays and disrupt opponents effectively.
Playmaking
- Ball Handling: Knecht’s ability to create his own shot is complemented by his capacity to handle the ball and facilitate plays.
- Passing: He has shown improvement in his passing skills, making him a dual-threat on the offensive end.
Benefits of Dalton Knecht’s Play Style for the Lakers
Incorporating Dalton Knecht into the Lakers’ lineup provides several advantages:
- Spacing the Floor: His shooting will help open up the floor for stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis, allowing for more driving lanes and opportunities.
- Increased Scoring Options: Adding another reliable scorer gives the Lakers more offensive flexibility, especially in clutch situations.
- Defensive Versatility: Knecht’s defensive skills allow the Lakers to be more adaptable against various offensive schemes from opponents.
Projected Impact in the 2024-25 Season
As the Lakers gear up for the 2024-25 season, the expectations for Dalton Knecht are high. Here are some projections regarding his impact:
| Category | 2024-25 Projection |
|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 15-20 |
| Three-Point Percentage | 38-40% |
| Rebounds Per Game | 4-5 |
| Assists Per Game | 2-3 |
First-Hand Experience: What Coaches Are Saying
Coaches and analysts have been impressed with Knecht’s work ethic and adaptability during training camp. Lakers’ head coach has noted:
“Dalton has an incredible sense of the game. His ability to shoot and create plays is something we need as we head into the season. He’s going to surprise a lot of people.”
Case Studies: Successful Rookie Seasons
Historically, several rookies have made significant impacts in their first seasons. Here are a few success stories that can serve as benchmarks for Dalton Knecht:
| Player | Year | Points Per Game | Three-Point Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stephen Curry | 2009-10 | 17.5 | 43.7% |
| Trey Murphy III | 2021-22 | 11.5 | 38.5% |
| Desmond Bane | 2020-21 | 9.2 | 43.2% |
Practical Tips for Dalton Knecht’s Development
For Dalton Knecht to maximize his potential and impact during the season, here are some practical tips:
- Focus on Conditioning: Staying in peak physical condition will allow him to endure the rigors of an 82-game season.
- Continuous Shooting Practice: Regular shooting drills will help him maintain his shooting percentage and confidence.
- Study Opponents: Understanding the defensive schemes of opponents will prepare him for the challenges he’ll face.
The Fan Perspective
Lakers fans are buzzing with excitement about Dalton Knecht’s potential. Fan forums and social media are flooded with predictions and discussions:
“I believe Knecht can be the next great shooter for the Lakers! His game reminds me of a young Klay Thompson!”
Conclusion
As the Lakers prepare for what promises to be an exhilarating 2024-25 season, Dalton Knecht stands out as a rookie ready to make his mark. With his sharpshooting skills, defensive versatility, and strong work ethic, Knecht is not just joining the team; he’s poised to become a vital component in their pursuit of another championship.
