Nicknames come and go within the NBA, particularly when you’re Dalton Knecht and also you’re on the Los Angeles Lakers. Earlier than Knecht formally caught to his nickname, the rapper Snoop Dogg provided his rebuttal: “Westside Knecht.” Because the Lakers rookie considered it, he lastly has chosen the one with whom he’ll keep.
Knecht4.
Although he embraces the Snoop Dogg nickname, Knecht-4 has all of the sense on the planet. After the Lakers’ penultimate preseason sport towards the Phoenix Suns, he confirmed up. Knecht scored 35 factors, together with 20 of the Lakers’ remaining 22 factors in a 128-122 additional time victory. Additionally, when Knecht dropped a four-word response his efficiency confirmed nice promise for a workforce that includes LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Though it is solely the preseason, he made a three-point barrage with nice issue. From the overhead shot of the 7’2 Bol Bol to the three-man pull-ups in transition, all the Footprint Heart was shaken. Coming into the common season, he had simply 5 factors, two assists and one rebound in 16 minutes of play.
He has the help of all his teammates. James supported Knecht’s brutal shot within the 107-102 preseason victory over the Milwaukee Bucks. Having the help of top-of-the-line gamers ought to make Knecht really feel much more linked to his workforce.
Lakers rookie Dalton Knecht can reside as much as the ‘Knecht 4’ nickname
When the Lakers drafted Knecht, they landed one of many steals of the NBA draft. In his lone season at Tennessee, Knecht averaged 21 factors on capturing. 45% from the sphere and 39% behind the arc. He additionally gained the 2023-24 SEC Participant of the 12 months. The 6’6 wing helped the Volunteers advance to the Elite Eight. His athleticism, pace and ball dealing with are crucial for a Lakers workforce with out a lot. After making no vital progress in free company, Knecht may have an expanded position.
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One in every of Knecht’s weaknesses is his capacity to play scorching or chilly. As talked about earlier than, he can lose 20 factors in a row or have a foul capturing evening. Whereas that is frequent within the NBA, it is probably not preferrred for the Lakers. They’ve gamers able to contribute proper now and ready for Knecht’s general growth is probably not an choice.
Regardless, he proved his nice scoring capacity when he was in school and even within the NBA. This 35-point explosion was sudden, particularly in the way in which it was completed. Having James and Anthony Davis in his ear can elevate his sport to unexpected heights. For now, Knecht 4 could be a recurring theme all through the season if he persistently connects on his three-point shot.
