The NBA season hasn’t even begun yet, but the action is already heating up. Preseason is a time for coaches to experiment with different lineups and for the players to work their way up to full fitness. But this time, things are already different. The latest clash between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors made that abundantly clear.
The Lakers beat the Warriors 126-116 with both teams missing their two biggest stars. It was a battle between the other players and the end-of-bench guys trying to prove they deserve a roster spot. One of the most scrutinized role players for LA has been Dalton Knecht. And the sharpshooter caught quite an earful from Draymond Green during the game.
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Knecht had 16 points on the night and was clearly feeling himself. At some point, with Deandre Ayton getting fouled and shooting free throws for Los Angeles, it seems Knecht said something to Green. Never one to back down, Draymond fired back ruthlessly.
“You’d better talk to somebody else, don’t talk to me,” Draymond told Dalton. “Don’t talk sh*t to me. You got traded and traded back, f*** outta here.”
Los Angeles Lakers guard Dalton Knecht (4) warms up before the game against the New Orleans Pelicans. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Naturally, this was a reference to the Mark Williams trade that fell through before the 2025 NBA trade deadline. The Lakers had dealt Knecht away to Charlotte to acquire the big man, but it didn’t end up happening. If Dalton isn’t able to perform and earn himself a spot on the team, this won’t be the last time an opponent rubs that in his face.
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