The Lakers’ 2024 NBA Draft class has already garnered plenty of attention, most of which has focused on the team’s second-round pick, Bronny James.
The interest was expected, as Bronny is the son of Lakers star LeBron James. The two will become the first father-son duo to play in the NBA, so it was only to be expected that he would capture the attention of fans.
But as excited as LeBron is to play with his son, he’s also excited to share the court with Los Angeles first-round pick Dalton Knecht.
James Sr. was asked about the possibility of playing with Knecht during a Team USA training event. He praised the Lakers rookie and former Tennessee star.
“Throughout the college season, Dalton, besides Bronny, was my favorite player in college basketball.” James said.
Lakers’ LeBron James on rookie Dalton Knecht: “Dalton, other than Bronny, was my favorite player in college basketball. … I didn’t think he would fall to 17 at all. … I’m glad he did.” image.twitter.com/TGe9OUoGtX
— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) July 6, 2024
James’ affinity for Knecht shouldn’t come as a huge surprise. The NBA veteran said during March Madness that he was excited to watch Purdue’s game against Tennessee because of high-level talents like Zach Edey and Knecht.
Knecht averaged 21.7 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.8 assists for the Volunteers during the 2023-24 season in which Tennessee made it to the Elite Eight. He also shot 39.7 percent from 3-point range, and that skill stood out to James when he watched Knecht play.
“I liked his shooting ability, his athleticism, his height, the attitude he played with,” James said. “I always felt like his game would translate to the NBA.”
Many NBA Draft analysts agreed. Knecht was almost universally mocked for being taken in the top 10, and he was ranked No. 4 in Jugo Mobile’ final overall rankings.
Still, Knecht fell out of the top 10 and slipped to the back of the lottery at No. 17 overall. Few thought he would be available at the time, including James.
“I didn’t think he was going to fall to 17th, so I didn’t think we’d have a chance to sign him,” James said. “I’m glad he did.”
Knecht’s goal now will be to give the Lakers more shots and floor spacing as a role player.
And while Bronny James will draw plenty of attention during the NBA Summer League and early in the 2024-25 season, Knecht seems more likely to emerge as a rookie contributor. His path to playing time may depend only on how quickly he can gel with LeBron James.
