Lakers select Dalton Knecht with 17th pick in 2024 NBA Draft

June 27, 2024, 6:30 p.m. Sports

The Los Angeles Lakers made a bold move in the 2024 NBA Draft by selecting Dalton Knecht with the 17th overall pick. The 6'6" shooting guard out of Duke University was highly touted heading into the draft, and the Lakers saw something special in him that they could not pass up.

Knecht's journey to the NBA started at a young age when he first picked up a basketball in his hometown of Chicago. His natural talent was evident from the start, and he quickly rose through the ranks of youth basketball leagues, earning accolades and recognition along the way. As he continued to improve and grow as a player, Knecht caught the attention of college scouts and ultimately received a scholarship to play for Duke.

During his time at Duke, Knecht solidified his reputation as a dynamic scorer and versatile player. He showcased his ability to score at all three levels, whether it be from beyond the arc, mid-range, or attacking the basket. Knecht's smooth shooting stroke and knack for creating his own shot made him a nightmare for defenders to guard. In addition to his scoring prowess, Knecht also displayed solid defensive skills, using his length and athleticism to disrupt passing lanes and contest shots.

Knecht's performance on the court did not go unnoticed, as he garnered numerous accolades during his college career. He was a two-time All-American and a three-time All-ACC selection, further solidifying his status as one of the top prospects in the country. His ability to perform at a high level in big moments also caught the attention of NBA scouts, who were impressed by his poise and maturity on the court.

When draft night arrived, Knecht waited anxiously to see where his basketball journey would take him. As the picks rolled in, he sat patiently with his family and friends, hoping for the opportunity to fulfill his dreams of playing in the NBA. When the Lakers called his name with the 17th pick, Knecht's emotions overflowed as he realized that his hard work and dedication had paid off.

The Lakers' decision to select Knecht was met with mixed reactions from fans and analysts. Some questioned whether he was the right fit for a team looking to compete for a championship, while others praised the team for taking a chance on a young, talented player with high upside. Lakers' general manager, Rob Pelinka, expressed his confidence in Knecht's abilities and his belief that he could make an immediate impact on the team.

As Knecht prepares to embark on his NBA journey, he knows that the real work is just beginning. The transition from college to the pros is a daunting challenge for many young players, but Knecht is determined to prove himself and show that he belongs among the best in the world. He understands the expectations that come with being a first-round pick and is ready to embrace the pressure that comes with wearing the purple and gold.

For Lakers fans, the selection of Dalton Knecht represents a new chapter in the team's storied history. With his scoring ability, defensive prowess, and competitive spirit, Knecht has the potential to be a game-changer for the Lakers as they look to compete for championships in the years to come. Only time will tell if Knecht can live up to the hype surrounding him, but one thing is for certain – the Lakers are betting on his talent and potential to help lead them back to the promised land.