A Night to Remember
Dalton Knecht, the Lakers’ rookie sensation, delivered a performance for the ages in the team’s 124-118 win over the Utah Jazz on November 19, 2024. Scoring a career-high 37 points, Knecht tied the NBA’s single-game rookie record by sinking nine 3-pointers. The electrifying performance left fans in awe and established him as a rising star in the league.
Historic Shooting Display
Knecht’s nine 3-pointers came on an efficient 9-of-12 shooting from beyond the arc. His highlight reel included a jaw-dropping 21-point surge in the third quarter, featuring five consecutive 3-pointers. Reflecting on the game, Knecht said, “I found a rhythm out there; my teammates were great at getting me open looks.”
Team Effort Leads to Victory
The Lakers’ win marked their sixth consecutive victory, improving their record to 10-4 and maintaining a perfect 7-0 home streak. Dalton Knecht’s heroics were complemented by strong contributions from:
- LeBron James: 26 points, 12 assists.
- Anthony Davis: 26 points, 12 assists.
- Austin Reaves: 17 points.
The collective effort kept the Jazz at bay, who were led by Lauri Markkanen’s 25 points.
Praise from the Lakers Camp
Knecht’s performance drew accolades from his teammates and coaches. Anthony Davis described Knecht as “phenomenal” and praised his ability to energize the team. Head Coach JJ Redick highlighted the rookie’s impact, calling his shooting an “invaluable weapon” that lifts the team’s spirits and momentum.
Draft Steal? Knecht Proves His Worth
Picked 17th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, Knecht is already being regarded as a draft steal. Concerns about his age (23) and defensive skills during the draft now appear baseless as he averages 24.3 points per game with an astounding 67.7% from beyond the arc in his last four starts.
LeBron James expressed gratitude for Knecht slipping to their pick, saying, “It’s astonishing how that worked out, and I’m beyond grateful he’s here with us.”
Lakers’ Road Ahead
The Lakers, now second in the Western Conference, will look to continue their winning streak as they host the Orlando Magic on Thursday. Meanwhile, the Jazz will seek redemption on the final leg of their road trip against the San Antonio Spurs.
Conclusion
Dalton Knecht’s record-breaking night not only secured a crucial win for the Lakers but also signaled the arrival of a potential future star. His ability to perform under pressure alongside seasoned veterans like James and Davis positions him as a cornerstone for the Lakers’ success this season.