Lakers Rookie Dalton Knecht Scores 35 Points in OT Preseason Win Against Suns (Sports)
October 17, 2024
Los Angeles Lakers rookie forward Dalton Knecht (No. 17 overall pick) might be the steal of the 2024 NBA draft with his strong shooting performance in tonight’s 128-122 OT win over the Phoenix Suns. Knecht scored 35 points on 10 for 18 FG (8 for 13 3PT), including 18 straight points in a five and a half minute stretch late in the fourth quarter. His main highlight of the game was his game tying shot on a deep 3 over Bol Bol.
Going into this game Knecht struggled with his shooting behind the arc, shooting 10 for 37 (27%) from 3-point range during the preseason. Expectations were higher for the rookie as he shot 39.7% from 3-point range for Tennessee last season.
Knecht will most likely not have many opportunities to take 18 shots when the regular season starts, but this strong shooting performance will give him and the team confidence going into the season. If he can find and make consistent shots (off the catch, off movement, off the dribble, in transition, etc.) and hold up defensively, he will help the team’s offense and help the team with their recent floor spacing issues.
The Lakers need a consistent 3-and-D player, and Knecht looks to be the piece that the team needs.