In a recent Los Angeles Lakers practice session, head coach JJ Redick was seen giving rookie Dalton Knecht some direct advice, making it clear he wants Knecht to adopt a more aggressive, shoot-first mentality. When Knecht received the ball off a curl screen and had ample space to take a shot, he chose instead to pass. Redick quickly stepped in, calling out:
“DK, every action you’re in, you’re coming up to score. Get out a shot, come on, man.”
This moment captures Redick’s emphasis on Knecht becoming a more confident offensive option, especially as a bench player who can provide instant scoring. Redick sees potential in the 23-year-old rookie’s shooting ability, and he’s pushing Knecht to break out of any hesitation and establish himself as a go-to scoring threat.
Redick’s straightforward instruction reflects his confidence in Knecht’s ability to create his own shot and add firepower to the Lakers’ second unit. Rather than deferring to teammates or second-guessing himself, Redick wants Knecht to view every opportunity as a chance to put points on the board.
Redick has made it clear to the Lakers staff that he’s excited about what Knecht brings to the table. He reportedly told the team’s trainers and staff:
“DK in his first NBA practice. A lot of good things.”
Here’s JJ coaching Dalton Knecht, encouraging him to shoot his shot out of the actions, instead of passing them up. pic.twitter.com/EQAK3rVNY7
— Washed LakersvsHaters (@notlakersgm) November 3, 2024
This high praise from Redick suggests that he views Knecht as an immediate contributor, someone capable of evolving into a reliable scoring option for the Lakers. Redick’s push for Knecht to take more shots aligns with the team’s goal to add offensive depth and consistency, especially when their stars, LeBron James and Anthony Davis, are off the floor.
Knecht’s early stats back up Redick’s confidence in him. Averaging 7.7 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, he has shown promising potential as a bench scorer. He’s shooting 44.4% from the field and 34.8% from beyond the arc—numbers that, while they can improve, are respectable for a rookie adjusting to the NBA’s pace and physicality.
Knecht has already hit some clutch shots for the Lakers, demonstrating his composure and shooting capability. Redick’s encouragement for Knecht to be more assertive is likely aimed at helping him develop the confidence needed to maintain his scoring threat consistently.
Knecht’s ability to score off the dribble and hit open looks is exactly what the Lakers need to support their top players. In a league where spacing and shooting are paramount, having a confident shooter like Knecht can stretch defenses, opening up lanes for players like James and Davis. By pushing Knecht to adopt a shoot-first approach, Redick is not only helping Knecht grow but also adding another layer to the Lakers’ offensive arsenal.
Knecht’s growth as a player will hinge on his willingness to embrace this shoot-first mentality and trust his abilities. Redick’s support and clear guidance provide him with the freedom to be aggressive without the fear of making mistakes.
If Knecht continues to develop under Redick’s guidance, he could become a significant asset to the Lakers, giving them a much-needed scoring boost off the bench and becoming a reliable rotational player. With Redick’s mentorship, Knecht has the potential to solidify his role as a valuable piece in the Lakers’ quest for a deep playoff run.
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