Knecht proves why he should have been a top-10 pick

Knecht had an outstanding performance against the Phoenix Suns, scoring 35 points and leading the Lakers to victory in overtime.

Knecht was selected by the Lakers with the 17th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, which seemed like a bargain at the time. He now proves that this statement is true.

If you play next to Hall of Famers, e.g LeBron James And Anthony Davis There tends to be a certain amount of pressure to play at the highest level. For Dalton Knecht That wasn't a problem as he led the Lakers in scoring right next to Davis. This wasn't a game either because the Suns were playing Kevin Durant And Devin Booker, both great defensive players of the game.

Knecht is averaging 18.6 points per game this preseason. At the start of preseason he struggled from three-point range, but quickly came back to life from distance. He's shot 13-26 from three-point range in his last two games and his season is just around the corner. He even gets comparisons Reggie Miller from his head coach JJ Redick.

Dalton Knecht (4) reacts after making a three-point basket against the Phoenix Suns in overtime at Footprint Center. Mandatory attribution: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images / Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images” height=”393″ width=”610″ />

Knecht said: “I was just pushing the tires“in his post-game interview, which shows us that this wasn't just a gamble, but that's who he is.

Knecht could definitely be someone whose teams want to be in the top ten. He's proving why he belongs on the floor and that it's worth staying in college ball for a few more years.

If everything works out for Knecht, he could be an important part of the rotation for JJ Redick and his team. Only time will tell. In the meantime, Knecht has been working to ensure he has the opportunity to showcase his skills at the next level along the way LeBron James And Anthony Davis, And these guys notice and give him his flowers.