In the California Classic, Los Angeles Lakers’ newcomer Dalton Knecht encountered difficulties for the second consecutive day, resulting in the team’s 92-68 loss to the Golden State Warriors. Following a 3-of-12 shooting performance in the initial game on Saturday, Knecht recorded 12 points on 3-of-13 shooting in 22 minutes of play on Sunday.
Despite Knecht’s shots not falling, he managed to get open in a variety of ways, mostly through dribble-hand-offs and curls. In his first two summer league games, Knecht made just 2 of 15 jumpers (13.3%). Lakers summer league coach Dane Johnson acknowledged Knecht’s struggles, saying, “It’s a long summer league. It’s going to come. He’s a great player, so I’m not worried about him missing some of the shots he’s taking.” Johnson emphasized patience and confidence in Knecht’s abilities, highlighting that “there are some [flashes] where you see that he’s got it.” Knecht’s shooting struggles in the summer league contrast with his performance in college, where he became an All-American at Tennessee, averaging 21.7 points per game. Knecht excelled at catch-and-shoot 3-pointers (42.3% per Synergy) and had success in that exact way, hitting his lone shot from distance.
“I have not played since March,” remarked Knecht. “I am currently in the process of reestablishing my rhythm and acclimating to playing alongside new teammates. It is crucial for me to continually adapt and integrate.” Knecht, who was selected as the 17th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft from Tennessee, was widely anticipated to be chosen within the top 10 picks leading up to the draft, but ultimately fell out of the lottery on draft night. As the Lakers have not yet made any roster additions through free agency or trade, there exists the potential for Knecht to promptly assume an influential role within the rotation, under the tutelage of first-year head coach JJ Redick.
In both of Knecht’s recent appearances, he demonstrated an improved ability to exert pressure on the opposing defense in the vicinity of the basket. This proficiency enabled him to successfully draw 14 fouls, resulting in opportunities to attempt free throws. Notably, Knecht attained a 50% shooting percentage (4-of-8) at the rim. During the game against the Warriors, a standout achievement was his decisive cut through the middle of the lane, culminating in a powerful two-hand dunk, despite encountering multiple defenders.
Following the conclusion of the California Classic, the Lakers will compete in one final game against the Miami Heat on Wednesday, after which they will proceed to Las Vegas for the subsequent segment of the summer league.
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