The Lakers Couldn’t Believe Dalton Knecht Fell to Them in the 2024 NBA Draft

The Los Angeles Lakers struck gold in the 2024 NBA Draft when Dalton Knecht fell into their laps at the No. 17 pick. While many rookies enter the league with high expectations, Knecht’s rapid rise to becoming a starter and an early Rookie of the Year candidate has been nothing short of remarkable.

An Unexpected Opportunity

When the draft unfolded, the Lakers were left in disbelief as Knecht, who was projected to be a top-10 pick, continued to slide. According to an ESPN report by Dave McMenamin, the Lakers’ front office, led by Rob Pelinka, was so baffled that they suspected there might be a hidden reason for his fall.

“In our draft prep, Knecht was in the top 10 on all of our scouts’ boards,” Pelinka revealed. “We were scratching our heads and wondering if we missed something.”

To ensure there were no red flags, Pelinka reached out to Dalton Knecht’s team at Excel Sports Management. After confirming there were no issues, the Lakers quickly acted, cementing one of the most surprising steals of the draft.

The Pelicans’ Role in the Heist

The Lakers weren’t the only team who could’ve landed Knecht. The New Orleans Pelicans had the option to claim the No. 17 pick as part of the Anthony Davis trade. However, they opted to defer their draft rights, inadvertently leaving the door open for Los Angeles.

This decision makes the AD trade—already considered one of the most lopsided deals in recent history—even more of a steal for the Lakers. By retaining the pick, the Lakers not only secured a generational talent in Davis but also landed a rising star in Knecht.

Dalton Knecht’s Immediate Impact

Through the first quarter of the season, Knecht has silenced any remaining doubters:

• Averaging 11.1 points per game, he has shown flashes of brilliance, including a scorching nine-game stretch in November where he averaged 18.9 points while shooting 52% from three.
• His smooth shooting stroke and ability to space the floor have made him an ideal complement to LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Despite a recent dip in performance, Knecht’s early contributions have been crucial in fortifying the Lakers’ rotation.

LeBron James Saw It Coming

While Knecht’s meteoric rise has surprised many, one person who isn’t shocked is LeBron James. The Lakers’ superstar reportedly had high expectations for the rookie from day one. According to McMenamin, James believed Knecht’s potential was evident during training camp and expected him to thrive in the Lakers’ system.

What’s Next for Knecht and the Lakers

As the season progresses, Dalton Knecht will aim to regain the consistency that made him an early standout. The Lakers, meanwhile, will continue to benefit from his shooting and versatility as they navigate a highly competitive Western Conference.

For Lakers fans, Knecht’s arrival serves as a testament to the team’s scouting acumen and a reminder that even late lottery picks can transform a franchise. If Knecht continues on his current trajectory, the 2024 NBA Draft will be remembered as the moment the Lakers solidified their future.

Dalton Knecht’s journey is just beginning, but it’s clear that Los Angeles has unearthed a gem. With his talent and drive, Knecht could be a cornerstone for the Lakers for years to come.