Dalton Knecht: Lakers' No. 17 Pick in the 2024 NBA Draft

One of the more influential recruits taken in 2024, Tennessee's Dalton Knecht, took a large step to being noticed when he went as high as No. 17 overall on draft day and was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers. He had a productive college career and fits everything the Lakers are looking for, so he is generating quite a lot of hype, with many outlets speculating more than ever. Below, we dive into Knecht's basketball career, why the Lakers took him, and whether his strengths and development indicators match where the team is headed.

Overview of Dalton Knecht

The talented wing was a standout with the Tennessee Volunteers, where he showed his scoring pop and developed a reputation as a clutch late-game performer. He was a reliable, high-volume scorer who could shoot the ball well and thus an interesting prospect for NBA teams. Drafting Knecht at No. 17 overall clearly signals that the Lakers see him as a potential major piece in achieving team goals of any kind.

Knecht's Fit with the Lakers

Knecht's abilities and how he plays the game are conducive to what the Lakers already have on their roster regarding talent styles and needs. The Lakers have every reason to believe his shooting, offensive versatility, and potential immediate impact play well with their desire for a deeper, more balanced rotation. Hiring JJ Redick as the new head coach only underscores the Lakers' plan to utilize Knecht's strengths within their offensive schemes, specifically by applying pressure at point-of-attack and perimeter shooting.

Knecht's Strengths and Projectability

There are multiple areas in which Dalton Knecht excels and could translate to success for him at the next level of basketball. With his scoring, including a surprising 37.8 percent shooting from the three-point line this season, he has proven to be a valuable asset for LAL on offense. Knecht can create his shot, sometimes off the dribble or via mid to long-range jumpers; he moves well without the ball away from the help side finisher around the basket basically at will. In addition, his defensive instincts and basketball IQ give him a higher floor that should allow for well-rounded development in the NBA.

Knecht can help the Lakers by filling voids, primarily by scoring on the perimeter and rounding out their offensive attack. Furthermore, Knecht offers significant growth potential and development in (NBA) the league, which falls perfectly in line with the Laker's vision to grow their youth moving forward.

Donning the Purple and Gold

Knecht's addition is expected to play a large part in the Lakers' current team dynamics and chemistry, supplying added scoring options and strengthening offensively what was once perceived as lacking depth. By meshing alongside some of his older and more proven colleagues, Knecht gives both parties a chance to improve their optimal game plans in line with the Lakers' effort at fielding an all-encompassed roster. By capitalizing on Knecht's very best attributes for the Lakers within the context of their offensive schemes, Los Angeles hopes to offset any limitations he may have in a manner that slots him into how they want to play.

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