Why is Dalton Knecht not playing tonight? Exploring the reason behind Lakers No. 55 pick's absence vs Hawks
Dalton Knecht, the LA Lakers No. 55 pick in the 2024 NBA draft class is a notable absentee as the side takes on the Atlanta Hawks in the Summer League on Wednesday (July 12). The guard was listed DNP-Coach's decision ahead of the game and Sean East II replaced him as the guard alongside Bronny James, Armel Traore, Maxwell Lewis and Colin Castleton.
According to Lakers reporter Mike Trudell on X/Twitter, Knecht was rested due to the sheer volume of practices and games since the start of the California Classic:
"Dalton Knecht is out for tonight’s game vs. Atlanta. It’s a team decision due to the volume of practices and games over the past two weeks of Cali Classic and Las Vegas," Trudell tweeted.
Knecht has been one of the standout names for LA. He averages 22.0 points in 32.4 minutes along with 4.5 rebounds and 3.0 assists.
Despite his best efforts, the Lakers have gone down in both their games against the Houston Rockets and the Boston Celtics. In his three games in the California Classic, Knecht averaged 14.6 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 2.0 spg.
Dalton Knecht reveals advice he received from JJ Redick
Despite their losses in the Summer League, the LA Lakers have a bright spot in Dalton Knecht. The Lakers rookie has been promising and showcased his skills where he could adeptly play off the ball, and knock down open looks under pressure.
More importantly, it appears like he has a good relationship with newly-minted coach JJ Redick. Knecht revealed that he and Redick were in constant communication:
“Yeah, me and JJ, he’s been talking to me every single day in the gym or through a text or something, just trying to help me out in every type of way. JJ is gonna be a big help for me as I improve and develop," Knecht said.
"Just do your work early before you get the ball. Try to create space coming off screens and just really get into your guys’ body and use the weight that they’re pushing you with and use it against them,” he added.
The LA Lakers are under scrutiny for not having made a single major move this offseason, and all signs point to the side going with their unit from last season. Given his recent form, Daniel Knecht comes in as a player who could see good minutes this 2024-25 season. For now, he will look at making a mark in the Summer League.