The Los Angeles Lakers made a surprising move by selecting Tennessee star Dalton Knecht with the 17th overall pick in the 2024 NBA draft. Knecht, who stands at 6’6″ and weighs 204 lbs, has been compared to former NBA player Wally Szczerbiak for his playing style.
Despite being overlooked during his time at Northern Colorado, Knecht proved himself at Tennessee, putting up impressive numbers against tough SEC competition. NBA scouts have taken notice of his ability to make shots and score effectively, especially when driving to the basket.
Looking at the Lakers’ updated roster, it’s clear that they are investing in both established stars and promising young talent. Players like Anthony Davis, Rui Hachimura, and Austin Reaves are locked in with lucrative contracts, while rookies like Knecht and Jalen Hood-Schifino offer potential for the future.
Knecht’s basketball journey began at Northeastern Junior College before transferring to Northern Colorado and eventually landing at Tennessee. His senior year performance in the SEC, where he averaged 21.7 points and 4.9 rebounds per game while shooting nearly 40 percent from three-point range, earned him the SEC Player of the Year award and the Julius Erving Award for the top small forward in college basketball.
At 23 years old, Knecht may not have the same upside as younger prospects, but his consistent production and maturity on the court make him a valuable pick for the Lakers. He may not be a flashy selection now, but he could prove to be a steal in the long run.
As Knecht prepares to embark on his NBA career with the Lakers, he reflects on how far he has come from his junior college days. Becoming a top draft pick and earning accolades in a major conference was beyond his imagination back then, but now it’s a reality he is ready to embrace.
In a league where talent is abundant and expectations are high, Dalton Knecht is determined to make his mark and show why the Lakers made the right choice in selecting him. With hard work, dedication, and a passion for the game, he is poised to contribute to the team’s success and carve out a successful career in the NBA.