"Would've taken him 1st pick"- Former Mavericks player high on Lakers' 17th pick Dalton Knecht's prospects
The LA Lakers made two intriguing selections in the 2024 NBA draft, starting with Dalton Knecht at 17 and closing with Bronny James at 55. The Purple and Gold have a win-now mentality, but the young players they've added via the draft are expected to make an impact in the mid and long-term.
Dalton Knecht hasn't been given the same attention as his new teammate, but there are those who believe he can be a big contributor to the Lakers. For instance, former Dallas Maverick Theo Pinson believes Knecht is the steal of this year's draft. Talking to former Knicks guard Raymond Felton, Pinson said:
“The steal of the draft? Oh, Lakers' [Dalton] Knecht. From Tennessee. He's a bucket. I would’ve taken him first pick, but you know how everybody else is, 'he's too old' and all that s**t. He's the best player in the draft. He can play right now.
"Listen, he's a dog, bro. He can play and he’s got bounce. Then they're talking about they don't know if he can guard. I'm like, 'Who can guard?'"
At 23, Dalton Knecht was indeed one of the oldest players in this year's draft, but he's one of those players who can make an instant impact as soon as he steps on the court. He comes with a notable resume from college, getting SEC Player of the Year honors ahead of the March Madness tournament.
After an unconventional journey in college, he's ready to prove himself again in the NBA and help LeBron James and Anthony Davis compete in the Western Conference. He averaged 21.7 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.8 assists with Tennessee, shooting 45.8% from the field and 39.7% from deep.
Dalton Knecht calls Kevin Durant the NBA GOAT
Dalton Knecht has been frequently speaking to the media after being selected by the LA Lakers. This week, the guard was asked who he thought is the greatest NBA player of all time, and Knecht named Kevin Durant.
He also revealed the origin of his name, citing an old movie as the reason why his parents picked it.
"I asked my parents how they came up with my name, and they brought up Road House. It was a super old movie. I don’t know when it was made. I watched it. It wasn't too bad."
Now he's set to create his own story, and the Lakers might present him a good opportunity to do so.