Dalton Knecht, the promising rookie for the Los Angeles Lakers, is currently facing a challenging start to his NBA career. Despite a strong preseason performance, Knecht has struggled with his shooting in the regular season, averaging just 6 points per game on under 40% shooting from the field and less than 30% from beyond the three-point line. Known for his shooting ability, these early struggles have raised concerns, but the Lakers’ leadership is confident that the former Tennessee Volunteers star will turn things around.
After an impressive showing during the preseason, many expected Knecht to be an immediate contributor for the Lakers. However, his shooting woes have made it difficult for him to make a significant impact. In the first 10 games of the season, Knecht has failed to showcase the shooting consistency that he displayed in college, particularly from three-point range, which is considered his strength.
Nevertheless, Lakers head coach JJ Redick and point guard D’Angelo Russell have shown unwavering support for Knecht. Both believe the 6’5” rookie will find his rhythm and meet the expectations that were set for him during his time at Tennessee.
Redick, known for his expertise as a shooter, is confident that Knecht’s struggles are just a temporary phase. He sees the rookie as a “tier one, top one percent shooter”, and is not concerned about his early season slump. Redick pointed out that Knecht has been getting good looks, both through organic movement and designed sets for him, which is a positive sign. According to Redick, players sometimes go through tough stretches, but he believes that with time, Knecht’s numbers will bounce back. Redick shared a personal insight from his own career, saying, “Sometimes you go through stuff, and because I played 15 years, it’s always hard for me early in the season if I initially didn’t get off to a good start shooting 3s. It became more than it was, and I just started focusing on the long term, believing that the law of averages would work out.” Redick’s experience gives him the perspective that Knecht will find his rhythm and emerge as a reliable shooter for the Lakers.
Lakers’ point guard D’Angelo Russell also echoed Redick’s sentiment, offering strong encouragement to the rookie. Russell emphasized that every young player wants immediate success, but the “Basketball Gods” often have a way of testing players. He reminded Knecht to stay patient and trust the process, saying, “For him, just know that your time is coming and just be ready. I think he’ll be ready when his time comes.” Russell’s advice highlights the importance of mental resilience and the understanding that success in the NBA is a marathon, not a sprint.
With support from key Lakers figures like Redick and Russell, it’s clear that Knecht has a strong foundation to build on as he continues to grow into his role. While his shooting slump is concerning, the Lakers are committed to helping him develop and adjust to the NBA’s demands. Knecht’s potential as a sharpshooter remains high, and his ability to contribute in other aspects of the game will also play a significant role in his eventual success.
Despite some early season struggles, including Knecht’s shooting issues and injuries to other players, the Lakers are still well-positioned to be contenders this season. The team boasts a strong core led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, with rising stars like Austin Reaves and Max Christie stepping up. Knecht’s development is just one of many storylines for the Lakers, and if he can overcome his shooting slump, he will be another key piece to their puzzle.
Dalton Knecht may be experiencing some early difficulties in his rookie season, but with the full support of his teammates and coaching staff, there is every reason to believe he will find his stride. JJ Redick and D’Angelo Russell both have confidence that Knecht’s skills will shine through as the season progresses. While the Lakers are still working through lineup adjustments and player injuries, they remain a formidable team with great potential, and Knecht’s growth will be an important factor in their quest for success this season.
