The Los Angeles Lakers had just one pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, and they made it count. At 17, they selected Dalton Knecht out of Tennessee, who earned the attention of LeBron James just two months ago.
“He’s a great player,” said James. “We watched that Purdue, Tennessee game because of Zach Edey and Knecht. Players, depending on who they are, will drive attention.”
LeBron James said that he watched Tennessee play in the Elite Eight because of Dalton Knecht.
“We watched that Purdue-Tennessee game because of Zach Edey and Knecht.”
Video: @mcten pic.twitter.com/HTKnOJRqsX
— Tanner Johnson (@JohnsonTanner23) April 4, 2024
The statement was fresh off a massive NCAA showdown between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Purdue Boilermakers, who were ranked 2nd and 1st respectively. Purdue won the game by six (72-66) but Knecht went off in the contest for 37 points in 37 minutes. It was a masterpiece for Dalton and his magnum opus on the court.
His play was enough to earn the attention of LeBron, who has always made it a point to keep up with the college game. over the years, his teams have always tried to cater to him by drafting players he likes, such as what happened with the Heat and Shabazz Napier in 2014.
In the case of the Lakers, we already know that they are gearing up to draft Bronny in round two so they don’t need to bother catering to the King. It just so happens that the guy they liked is also LeBron-approved.
As a shooter and natural playmaker, Knecht should fit like a glove in the Lakers rotation, and head coach JJ Redick already has plans on how to best utilize his game. If he can ease into the season and fulfill his role, the Lakers will be in better shape next season as far as building up their depth.
While much work still needs to be done for the Lakers, day one of the draft can be considered a success given that they came away with arguably the biggest steal of the round. For a youngster of his caliber to be so easily available was not expected for the Lakers but both sides are eager to get started.
Knecht Is Excited To Learn From LeBron
Shortly after hearing his name called, Dalton Knecht sat down with Taylor Rooks to discuss the next phase of his basketball journey. As a Laker now, he opened up about his past and said that he’s looking forward to making a difference for the 17x champions.
“I always dreamed high of myself because I’m super confident. But I can make it happen just because I got to learn from LeBron James. He’s gonna be a great mentor and I’m gonna try to go under his wing as much as I can and learn from him,” said Knecht. “LeBron is one of the greatest to ever touch the basketball and it’s gonna be a pleasure to share the court with him.”
As a 21-year NBA veteran and a 4x champion, there is no doubt that LeBron James is one of the greatest players ever. Besides his heroics on the court, he’s been valuable to the Lakers as a mentor and leader for the group, and that role will continue with Knecht next season.
In light of Jalen Hood Schifino not panning out as they hoped, the Lakers need their newest rookie to produce for them from day one. With Redick, LeBron, and a solid support system in place, there is optimism that they can bring the most out of the former Tennessee baller.
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