Skip Bayless coins new moniker for Dalton Knecht after Lakers rookie's breakout game vs. Suns
Lakers rookie Dalton Knecht delivered a standout performance in Thursday’s preseason game against the Phoenix Suns, helping lead the team to a thrilling 128-122 overtime victory at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Knecht, who had been struggling with his shot, found his rhythm and was unstoppable from beyond the arc, playing a key role in securing the win for the Purple and Gold.
Veteran analyst Skip Bayless was thrilled by the former Tennessee star’s breakout performance. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Skip enthusiastically praised the rookie, dubbing him "The Igniter" and confidently stating that Knecht will make a significant impact for the Lakers in the upcoming regular season.
"Lakers are loaded. AD was a feasting beast tonight. LeBron is 39 going on 25. When healthy, Lakers are SO DEEP - and Knecht the igniter WILL CONTRIBUTE. Still, I have my Thunder over Lakers in West finals," Skip wrote.
Knecht took control of the game with his incredible shooting, scoring 20 consecutive points across the fourth quarter and overtime to single-handedly propel the Lakers to victory.
Skip's admiration for Knecht didn’t end there. The veteran analyst followed up with two more tweets praising the Lakers rookie's outstanding performance. In one tweet, Skip described Knecht as "fearless" for his incredible shooting display and asserted that the forward has potential to become a "STAR" in the league.
"Dalton Knecht has STAR potential. He just clutched home a deep 3 to tie the game with 5 secs left. Just fearless," Skip said.
"DALTON KNECHT JUST WENT HOTTER-THAN-THE-DESERT HOT IN PHOENIX. JUST INSANELY HOT FROM 3," the veteran analyst wrote in a separate tweet.
Dalton Knecht stats vs. Phoenix Suns
With the Lakers down 113-107 in the final minute of regulation, Dalton Knecht rose to the occasion, hitting back-to-back 3-pointers, including the game-tying shot with 4.8 seconds remaining.
Knecht was unstoppable in overtime, sinking two more 3-pointers to start the period. The former Northern Colorado star poured in 13 points during the overtime, leading the Lakers to their second win of the preseason.
The Lakers forward delivered an impressive performance, finishing with 35 points on 10-of-18 shooting, including 8-of-13 from 3-point range. Knecht also contributed seven rebounds, one assist, two steals and two blocks to cap off his stellar game.