Lakers Rookie Dalton Knecht Shines in Preseason Win Over Suns
In a thrilling preseason matchup against the Phoenix Suns, rookie Dalton Knecht delivered an unforgettable performance, cementing his potential as a rising star for the Los Angeles Lakers. The game ended in a 128-122 overtime win, with Knecht showcasing his best performance yet, scoring 35 points and proving he can be a key player in the Lakers' rotation.
The Lakers came into the game aiming for a dress rehearsal of sorts, treating the game like a regular-season matchup. However, injuries and rest for key players such as LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, and Austin Reaves meant that the Lakers had to rely on a mix of starters and bench players. Coach JJ Redick emphasized flexibility, acknowledging that things don’t always go as planned in the NBA. But despite these adjustments, the team still managed to stick to their pregame routine.
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Anthony Davis led the charge early, dominating from the three-point line and finishing the night with 35 points. His presence was felt throughout the game, especially during the early phases, when he drained four three-pointers in the first quarter alone. But it was Dalton Knecht who stole the spotlight in the latter part of the game. Knecht, who had missed a game-winner against the Suns earlier in the preseason, made up for it in dramatic fashion, scoring 25 points in the fourth quarter and overtime.
Knecht was simply on fire, making eight three-pointers, including a crucial one over 7-foot-3 Bol Bol to force the game into overtime. His scoring flurry in the final minutes was something to behold, and the Lakers’ bench couldn't help but fuel his momentum by fanning the "flames" as Knecht continued to score. It wasn’t just his shooting that impressed, though. Knecht also contributed with seven rebounds, two steals, and two blocks, making it a well-rounded performance.
While the Suns’ stars Devin Booker and Kevin Durant put up solid numbers, with Booker scoring 22 points and Durant adding 19, it wasn’t enough to overcome the combined firepower of Davis and Knecht. The game was an important test for the Lakers, who were without several key players due to injuries or precautionary rest. But Knecht's breakout performance provided a much-needed boost of confidence, not only for him personally but also for the Lakers' depth heading into the regular season.
Coach JJ Redick will undoubtedly be pleased with Knecht’s display, especially given the team’s injury concerns. The Lakers are still waiting on Jarred Vanderbilt, who will miss the start of the season as he recovers from foot surgery, so having a player like Knecht step up is critical for the team’s early success. The preseason may not count in the standings, but moments like these are invaluable for building chemistry and discovering new talent.
As the Lakers approach the regular season, all eyes will be on Dalton Knecht and how he continues to evolve within the team. His performance against the Suns may very well be the beginning of an exciting chapter for both him and the Lakers this year.
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