As the Los Angeles Lakers gear up for another high-stakes NBA season, all eyes may be on superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis. But lurking beneath the marquee names is Dalton Knecht, a 23-year-old rookie who could emerge as a pivotal player in the Lakers' quest for a championship. Knecht, selected 17th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, may not have come into the league with the same fanfare as other top picks, but he’s quickly becoming a name to watch.

A Sharp Shooter with a Unique Journey

Knecht’s road to the NBA wasn’t the typical one. Starting his career at Northeastern Junior College before transferring to Northern Colorado and later Tennessee, his talent blossomed over time. In his final season at Tennessee, Knecht averaged over 21 points per game and shot nearly 40% from three-point range, showcasing his ability to be a lethal shooter from anywhere on the floor. This performance earned him SEC Player of the Year honors and established him as a reliable scoring threat.

Now, on a Lakers team that struggled mightily with three-point shooting last season, Knecht’s skill set could be just what the doctor ordered. His shooting proficiency fills a glaring hole in the Lakers' offense, particularly from beyond the arc, where they ranked near the bottom of the league in attempts last year.

The Fit: Knecht and the Lakers' System

With LeBron James still commanding double teams and Anthony Davis dominating in the paint, the Lakers need reliable shooters to space the floor. Enter Knecht, whose off-ball movement and quick release make him a perfect complement to the Lakers' stars. He doesn’t need the ball in his hands for long to make an impact—his ability to shoot off the catch makes him a potential game-changer in LeBron’s drive-and-kick system.

Moreover, with JJ Redick now at the helm as the Lakers' head coach, Knecht finds himself under the tutelage of a sharpshooter who knows a thing or two about spacing the floor and thriving in high-pressure situations. Redick's system could unlock Knecht’s potential even further, making him a valuable piece in the Lakers' rotation.

Challenges Ahead

However, it won’t all be smooth sailing for Knecht. While his offensive prowess is undeniable, his defense remains a work in progress. At 6'6", Knecht has the size to guard multiple positions, but his lateral quickness and ability to handle quicker guards will need to improve if he’s to earn consistent minutes in Redick’s nine-man rotation.

There’s also the matter of competition. The Lakers are stacked with guards and wings, all vying for minutes. Knecht will be competing with the likes of Gabe Vincent, Max Christie, and Cam Reddish, meaning his defensive weaknesses could limit his playing time if they aren’t addressed.

Can Knecht Become a Rookie of the Year Contender?

Despite these challenges, Knecht’s path to Rookie of the Year isn’t out of reach. His ability to play meaningful minutes on a playoff-caliber team gives him an edge over other rookies playing on struggling squads. If he can contribute offensively and hold his own on defense, the spotlight of Los Angeles could elevate his Rookie of the Year candidacy. With the top of the 2024 draft class still finding their footing, Knecht has a real chance to emerge as a surprise contender.

In a league where stars are often born under the brightest lights, Dalton Knecht might just be the next to rise. For the Lakers, his development could be the difference between another early playoff exit and a deep postseason run.

The 2024-25 NBA season promises to be a defining moment for the Lakers—and for Dalton Knecht, it’s an opportunity to etch his name in the annals of Lakers lore.