Dalton Knecht

Dalton Knecht emerged as a notable addition to the NBA when he was drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers as the 17th overall pick in the first round of the 2024 NBA Draft. Born on April 19, 2001, in Thornton, Colorado, Knecht honed his skills at Prairie View High School before committing to Tennessee for his college career. His transition from college to the professional level was highly anticipated due to his impressive performance at Tennessee, which caught the Lakers' attention. Standing 6 feet 6 inches (78 inches) tall and weighing 215 pounds, Knecht plays primarily as a small forward (SF), a position that leverages his mix of size, skill, and agility. In his rookie season with the Lakers, Knecht quickly made his mark by showcasing his all-around game. Over the course of the season, he played in 24 games, starting in 12, and averaged 11.0 points, 3.54 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, with an average playing time of 24.3 minutes. Knecht demonstrated his scoring ability both inside the paint and beyond the arc, with a shooting percentage of 46.9% from the field and 39.1% from three-point range, reflecting his versatility and efficiency as a scorer. Knecht's defensive skills were also on display, as he contributed with steals and blocks, further proving his value on both ends of the court. His performance included notable achievements such as scoring efficiency and the ability to contribute significantly in fast break situations, highlighting his role as a dynamic player for the Lakers. Dalton Knecht's early life and background in Colorado set the foundation for a promising NBA career. As he continues to develop and refine his game, Knecht is poised to become an integral part of the Lakers' roster, contributing to their success in the seasons to come. With his rookie season serving as just the beginning, Knecht's blend of scoring, rebounding, and defensive play makes him a player to watch in the NBA.