The 2025 NBA Draft is fast approaching, with Cooper Flagg widely projected as the No. 1 overall pick. A standout freshman at Duke, Flagg has garnered comparisons to NBA stars like Jayson Tatum and Kawhi Leonard due to his exceptional two-way play and defensive versatility. His ability to guard multiple positions and impact the game on both ends has made him a consensus top prospect.
Standing at 6-foot-9 and weighing 225 pounds, Flagg showcased a versatile skill set during his lone collegiate season, averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. His performance earned him multiple accolades, including National Player of the Year and ACC Player of the Year honors. Flagg's high basketball IQ and competitive drive has been praised by NBA scouts and fans.
Cooper Flagg at the 2025 NBA Combine.
Former Duke Blue Devils forward Cooper Flagg.
© David Banks-Imagn Images
However, recent developments at the NBA Draft Combine have shifted some attention to Los Angeles Lakers rookie guard Dalton Knecht. During last year's draft combine, the former Tennessee Volunteer impressed scouts with his athleticism and shooting ability, recording a 39.0-inch max vertical jump and showcasing elite agility times. Knecht also excelled in shooting drills, making 84% of his spot-up shots and 72% on the move (via NBA).
On Wednesday, Iztok Franko of Diggin Basketball pointed out Knecht's combine performance led to a higher athleticism score than Flagg in analyst Nick Kalinowski's model, sparking discussions among fans. While this doesn't necessarily indicate Knecht is a superior athlete overall, it has prompted a reevaluation of his potential, with his future in LA now up in the air.
Fans were quick to react to this news on social media:
"Knecht is a great athlete for sure," one fan wrote
"Dalton Knecht's potential is there, his biggest flaw on defense is court awareness," another fan added.
"People forget that he has a 39 inch vertical and elite agility times," a third fan mentioned.
"Is it possible we're overrating Flagg's athleticism?" another fan questioned.
Knecht was selected by the Lakers with the 17th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft and finished his rookie season averaging 9.1 points and 2.8 rebounds in 19.2 minutes.