Lakers News: Lakers Select Dalton Knecht With No. 17 Overall Pick In 2024 NBA Draft

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The Los Angeles Lakers have made their move in the 2024 NBA Draft, selecting Dalton Knecht out of Tennessee with the No. 17 pick. Known for their need to add shooting prowess to their roster, the Lakers have found exactly what they needed in Knecht, a dynamic and prolific 3-point shooter.

Dalton Knecht is renowned for his exceptional shooting ability, particularly from deep ranges. A scouting report from The Ringer highlights his strengths, noting that Knecht is a "dynamic, knockdown 3-point shooter from deep ranges. He can sprint into the wing or readjust in midair to fire accurately coming off of screens." This makes him an immediate threat from beyond the arc, a skill highly coveted in today’s NBA.

Knecht’s offensive game is not limited to spot-up shooting. He is a talented shooter off the dribble, possessing multiple moves to create space. "Tennessee relies on him in must-score situations, and he has a feel for running the pick-and-roll, so he could develop into a primary option. At a minimum, his handle makes him a weapon attacking closeouts, slashing, and running transition offense," the scouting report elaborates. His ambidextrous finishing at the rim, combined with his athleticism and strength, allows him to score efficiently from various angles and distances.

In addition to his scoring, Knecht displays significant playmaking instincts. "He calmly handles double-teams and finds open teammates with decisive passes," demonstrating his ability to contribute to the team’s ball movement and create opportunities for others. His awareness and activity as a cutter further add to his offensive repertoire, making him a well-rounded offensive player. Knecht's ability to finish out of the post and his versatility in various offensive sets give him additive value beyond his perimeter shooting.

Despite his offensive talents, Knecht does have areas where he needs to improve, particularly on the defensive end. "Targeted by opponents because he’s usually the weakest link on defense. This will often be true in the NBA, too, unless he improves his ability to move laterally," the scouting report cautions. Additionally, Knecht needs to prove his shot-creating abilities against lengthier defenders. His performance against Kansas earlier this season, where he went 4-for-17 from the field, highlighted his struggles against size and length.

With the Lakers looking to enhance their shooting capabilities, Knecht appears to be the perfect fit. His dynamic shooting and offensive versatility align well with the Lakers’ needs. As he develops under the Lakers' system, there is potential for Knecht to become not only a primary scoring option but also a more rounded player who can handle the rigors of NBA defense.

In selecting Dalton Knecht, the Lakers have made a strategic choice that addresses their immediate needs while also adding a player with significant upside.