Quick Bytes
- Lakers rookie Dalton Knecht shines with 25 points in Las Vegas Summer League game.
- Knecht maintains confidence in his shooting despite previous struggles.
- Lakers coach JJ Redick emphasizes Knecht’s need for defensive improvement.
Rookie Dalton Knecht’s Confidence Unshaken in Lakers Summer League
In the Las Vegas Summer League, Dalton Knecht, the Los Angeles Lakers’ first-round pick, delivered an impressive performance despite the team’s loss to the Houston Rockets.
Knecht’s 25-point game marked a significant turnaround from his earlier California Classic outings, where his shooting percentages were notably lower. His resilience and self-assurance were on full display as he expressed unwavering confidence in his abilities, backed by his teammates and coaching staff. The focus for Knecht is not solely on statistics but on his ability to find and take the shots he wants, a process that he and the Lakers value deeply.
While Knecht’s offensive skills are evident, Lakers head coach JJ Redick has pointed out the necessity for the rookie to bolster his defensive game. Redick stresses the importance of being a two-way player in the NBA, signaling that Knecht’s development on the defensive end will be crucial for his success. With more games ahead in the Summer League, Knecht has the opportunity to showcase his growth and maintain the high level of confidence that is essential for his journey in the NBA.
