Dalton Knecht: The Rising Star Powering Lakers’ Success in the 2024-25 Season

The Los Angeles Lakers are making waves early in the 2024-25 season, thanks in part to rookie Dalton Knecht, whose sharpshooting and consistent performances have added depth to the roster. Selected 17th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, Knecht is proving to be an invaluable asset to a team hungry for championship glory.

A Promising Start to the Season

Under the leadership of new head coach JJ Redick, the Lakers have embraced their championship aspirations with vigor. Redick, who emphasized the franchise’s high standards during his introductory press conference, played a key role in bringing Knecht into the fold.

Fast forward to November, and the Lakers boast an impressive 10-4 record, their best start since the 2020-21 season. Riding a six-game winning streak, the team’s success is fueled by Knecht’s shooting prowess. The rookie is leading all rookies in three-point shooting percentage (46.4%) and has quickly established himself as a reliable floor spacer.

In a standout performance during the Lakers’ 124-118 win over the Jazz, Knecht poured in 37 points and tied the NBA rookie record for most three-pointers in a game (9). What’s more impressive? He achieved this on just three dribbles.

Team Reactions to Knecht’s Performance

Knecht’s contributions haven’t gone unnoticed. Veteran star Anthony Davis praised the rookie’s skill:

“He can do more than just shoot. But he’s really good at shooting … We get mad at him when he doesn’t shoot.”

Knecht’s ability to stretch the floor and score efficiently has propelled him to the No. 3 spot on the latest Kia Rookie Ladder rankings. The Lakers are 5-1 when Knecht scores in double figures, showcasing his impact on team success.

The Steady Presence of Lakers’ Stars

While Knecht’s rise has been remarkable, the Lakers’ resurgence is also driven by the stellar performances of their star players:

• Anthony Davis is having a career year, averaging 30.7 points (second in the NBA) and 11.4 rebounds while shooting 56.7% from the floor. Davis is on track to join NBA legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Giannis Antetokounmpo as one of the few players to average 30+ points and 10+ rebounds on 55% shooting in a season.

• LeBron James, entering his 22nd season, has seamlessly transitioned into a playmaking role. Averaging 9.4 assists per game, LeBron is showcasing his versatility while maintaining his scoring efficiency with a career-high 41.6% three-point shooting.

Knecht’s Future and Lakers’ Aspirations

As the Lakers aim to contend for another championship, Knecht’s development will be pivotal. His ability to perform in clutch moments, as seen in his Christmas Day performance, suggests he’s ready for the big stage.

The Lakers’ blend of experienced superstars and emerging talent like Knecht is a winning formula. With Knecht’s sharpshooting and confidence growing, the Lakers appear poised to make a deep playoff run.

Knecht’s rise is a testament to the Lakers’ focus on building a balanced team, ensuring their future remains as bright as their illustrious past. Dalton Knecht emerging as key piece in Lakers’ early-season success The Lakers’ No. 17 pick is helping to fuel the team’s early-season success with his sharpshooting and impactful play.