Los Angeles Lakers rookie guard Dalton Knecht had a rookie season unlike any other in the NBA. Knecht began as one of the favorites for Rookie of the Year and had some big moments and performances at the beginning of the season.
As is the case with most rookies, though, Knecht also had his struggles and was in and out of the rotation before suddenly being traded to the Charlotte Hornets before the trade deadline. Of course, that deal for big man Mark Williams would be rescinded, and Knecht would then return to the Lakers and, despite the awkwardness of the situation, would re-settle in with the team and have some more big performances later in the year.
While it may not have been quite as good of a rookie year as some would have hoped, Knecht still showed a lot of promise and potential, and the guard recently took to Instagram to share a video highlighting his first NBA season:
Overall, Knecht appeared in 78 games for the Lakers, averaging 9.1 points and 2.8 rebounds while shooting 37.6% from 3-point range. He ranked third amongst all rookies in 3-pointers made and third in 3-point percentage with at least 150 attempts. He scored in double figures in 32 games and shone when put into the starting lineup, as he averaged 16.7 points and 4.9 rebounds on 39.5% shooting from deep in 16 games as a starter.
There are certainly some areas for improvement for Knecht, particularly on the defensive end, where he is often targeted when on the floor. Also, becoming a better passer and playmaker would greatly benefit him and the Lakers. Still, his work ethic is top-notch, and there is no denying he will put in all of the necessary work to see significant improvements in his second season.
Knecht’s natural ability to shoot and score the ball can not be denied. He remains a potentially valuable piece of this team moving forward, and plenty of eyes will be on his development and the improvements he makes to his game this offseason.
Lakers’ Dalton Knecht wants to improve all-around game this summer
Dalton Knecht also knows he needs to make some improvements this offseason, and the Lakers guard doesn’t have any particular area he is focusing on. Instead, Knecht wants to improve his all-around game this summer and be prepared for any role the Lakers have for him next season.
“Obviously, I gotta get better all around, try to be an overall better basketball player,” Knecht said during his Lakers exit interview. “Just trying to adjust in my role and do whatever the team asks for to get ready for the summer.”
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