Kelly L. Cox – USA TODAY Sports
The Los Angeles Lakers have high hopes for first-round draft pick Dalton Knecht. The rookie was one of the best players in college basketball last year, earning SEC Player of the Year and All-American honors, but it came as a surprise to everyone when he was selected by the Lakers with the 17th overall pick.
His offensive skills are well known, being not only a great range shooter but also possessing the ability to attack the basketball, perhaps most importantly is his mindset where he has never been afraid of big moments and has always felt like he was the best player on the court.
And that belief in himself remains the same at the NBA level. ESPN's Jorge SedanoKnecht said his goal is to ultimately become the best player in the NBA and win a lot of championships.
“I want to be the best player in the league. I want to be an All-Star. I want to do anything for my team.” […] Of course we have to win championships.”
Of course, the chances of Dalton Knecht becoming the best player in the league are slim, just like they are for anyone else, but what stands out here is the mindset and work ethic that should ultimately benefit the Lakers moving forward.
In two games in the Las Vegas Summer League, Knecht is averaging 22 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2 steals while shooting 41.2% from three-point range. While there is still room for growth and development, it's clear where Knecht can contribute to the Lakers this season.
Knecht will have more opportunities to play against the team's stars, and he's confident he can take advantage of them when the time comes. From all angles, Knecht could be an absolute bargain in the draft for the Lakers.
Dalton Knecht reveals advice he received from Lakers coach JJ Redick
Dalton Knecht has already built a relationship with Lakers head coach JJ Redick, given their similarities as players, and Knecht recently revealed that the two are in essentially daily contact and shared some advice he's received from his new coach.
“You just have to work early before you get the ball,” Knecht said. “You have to come off screens to create space, get close to his body and use his weight against you to get the better of him.”
Redick understands how Knecht thrives and has a lot of tips to help him develop into the player he and the Lakers expect him to be.
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