Dalton Knecht didn’t put his best foot forward with the Los Angeles Lakers during the Summer League.
The Tennessee product had much to prove after a mediocre rookie season, but his selfish offensive ways and nonexistent defense prevented him from taking a step forward in his development.
However, while Knecht hasn’t been stellar to start the 2025-26 season, his encouraging play in Los Angeles’ last two outings caught the attention of a dedicated Lakers writer.
“The second-year wing (Knecht) was already struggling to secure a steady role with the Los Angeles Lakers, and his performances in Las Vegas sealed his fate,” Lake Show Life’s Maxwell Ogden wrote Thursday.
“In a span of just two NBA games, however, Knecht has unequivocally proven that he still has the tools to be a high-level contributor in Los Angeles.”
“Knecht scored 16 points in 25 minutes, adding two steals and a block, during his first high-usage game of the season on Oct. 27 against the Portland Trail Blazers. Two days later, he posted 15 points in 36 minutes, adding two blocks and a steal as the Lakers defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves.”
To be clear, Knecht’s efficiency still leaves much to be desired, as he’s currently shooting 44.8% from the field and 18.8% from three on the year.
Still, the former first-round pick’s feel for the game appears to have improved slightly as of late, enabling him to play under control against the Portland Trail Blazers and Timberwolves.
Of course, Knecht’s increased playing time/role is the result of the Lakers’ injury-filled roster. That said, the 24-year-old should be applauded for making the most of his current opportunity and showing positive glimpses on the hardwood.
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