Lakers’ Dalton Knecht Snubbed for Rookie of the Month Honors

Los Angeles Lakers rookie Dalton Knecht has been a revelation during the team’s rocky start to the 2024-25 NBA season, but his strong performance wasn’t enough to earn him Western Conference Rookie of the Month honors for October-November. The award went instead to Jaylen Wells of the Memphis Grizzlies, with Jared McCain of the Philadelphia 76ers claiming the title in the Eastern Conference.

The snub highlights both Knecht’s impressive individual play and the broader struggles of a Lakers team that has been inconsistent despite boasting All-Stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Knecht vs. Wells: A Close Contest

The decision came down to Knecht and Wells, two rookies with similar stat lines who have stepped up for their respective teams.

• Dalton Knecht (Lakers)

  • 11.6 PPG on 47.6% FG / 41.0% 3PT / 77.3% FT
  • 3.4 RPG, 1.1 APG
  • Recently promoted to a starting role under head coach J.J. Redick.

• Jaylen Wells (Grizzlies)

  • 12.2 PPG on 45.9% FG / 39.6% 3PT / 77.1% FT
  • 3.4 RPG, 1.9 APG
  • Has started 16 of Memphis’ 21 games, helping the Grizzlies to a 14-7 record despite injuries to key players like Ja Morant and Desmond Bane.

While Knecht’s shooting efficiency has been slightly better, Wells’ ability to contribute to Memphis’ success in the standings likely gave him the edge. The Grizzlies currently sit at third in the West, while the Lakers hold the eighth seed with a 12-9 record.

Jared McCain Dominates in the East

In the Eastern Conference, Jared McCain was the clear standout. Selected just one spot ahead of Knecht in the 2024 NBA Draft, McCain has flourished with the Philadelphia 76ers. His averages for the month include:

• 16.0 PPG on 44.8% FG / 36.4% 3PT / 90.6% FT
• 2.6 APG, 2.5 RPG

McCain’s scoring output and efficiency have made him a key contributor for the Sixers, solidifying his place as one of the league’s top rookies.

Knecht’s Bright Spot Amid Lakers’ Struggles

Knecht has quickly emerged as one of the Lakers’ most promising players, particularly as the team faces challenges elsewhere on the roster. LeBron James, now in his 21st season, has shown signs of decline, including a shocking slump where he’s missed 24 consecutive three-point attempts. Meanwhile, Anthony Davis has performed admirably, anchoring the offense, but the Lakers continue to struggle defensively on the wings and lack depth in key areas.

Despite the team’s middling record, Knecht’s ability to step into a starting role and provide reliable scoring has been a critical factor in keeping the Lakers competitive. His 47.6% shooting from the field and 41.0% from deep have made him a valuable weapon in head coach J.J. Redick’s system.

While being passed over for Rookie of the Month honors may feel like a setback, Knecht’s future remains bright. As the Lakers work to address their roster issues and push for a higher seed in the playoffs, Knecht will undoubtedly play a pivotal role. His performance so far proves he belongs among the league’s most promising young talents.

The snub could serve as motivation for the rookie, who has the tools to cement himself as a key piece of the Lakers’ future and a contender for more accolades as the season progresses.