Los Angeles Lakers rookie Dalton Knecht delivered an electrifying performance on Tuesday night against the Utah Jazz, scoring a career-high 37 points. He hit nine three-pointers, many during a scorching third-quarter stretch where he scored 21 consecutive points for the Lakers. Knecht’s shooting spree extended into the fourth quarter, solidifying a close 124-118 victory. His offensive explosion included clutch plays that had LeBron James visibly animated on the sidelines, celebrating the rookie’s contributions.
LeBron’s praise highlighted Knecht’s fearlessness and importance to the team, especially with key players like Rui Hachimura sidelined. Lakers head coach JJ Redick emphasized the confidence the team is building in Knecht, noting his recent offensive consistency. Knecht is averaging 24.3 points per game over his last four outings, rivaling even LeBron’s production during this span. His performances are making a case for an expanded role in the Lakers’ rotation moving forward.
This breakout game has fans and analysts touting Knecht as one of the biggest steals of the 2024 NBA Draft, with his combination of elite shooting and poise under pressure standing out early in his rookie campaign.