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- Dalton Knecht was unexpectedly available for the Lakers at the 17th pick in the NBA Draft.
- Concerns about Knecht’s age and defensive abilities caused his slip in the draft rankings.
- Knecht, a consensus All-American, is seen as a strong shooter and scorer despite concerns.
- Being drafted by the Lakers is a ‘dream come true’ for Knecht, who is eager to start.
Unexpected Draft Twist Lands Knecht with the Lakers
In a surprising turn of events, Dalton Knecht joined the Los Angeles Lakers as the 17th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, a position much later than initially anticipated by experts.
Despite attempts to arrange a pre-draft workout, Knecht’s team declined, believing he would be chosen earlier. However, his age, 23, and perceived defensive shortcomings at the professional level contributed to his fall in the draft order. These factors often lead teams to favor younger players with more perceived potential for development. Knecht’s lack of elite athleticism and lateral movement raised flags about his defensive capabilities in the NBA.
Nevertheless, Knecht’s impressive track record as a consensus All-American and his scoring prowess made him an irresistible choice for the Lakers, who were thrilled to find him still available. For Knecht, being drafted by the storied franchise was the fulfillment of a lifelong aspiration, and he is determined to prove his worth on the court.
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