W hen the Los Angeles Lakers decided to hire NBA sharpshooter JJ Redick as their next head coach the plan was for him to be the guy to build this team for the present and future.

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James gave rookie Dalton Knecht his stamp of approval after the preseason opener.

Even though the Lakers fell apart in the second half of their preseason loss to the Suns on Sunday, head coach JJ Redick liked their overall play.

Dalton Knecht looked impressive in his NBA preseason debut as he posted a really solid stat line on Friday night against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The 17th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft had 16 points,

Knecht was considered a near-lock to go in the lottery, but perceived concerns over his defense and age led to his slide down the board. With the Tennessee product still available, the Lakers made the easy choice to pick him and they are already reaping the benefits as the rookie has come almost exactly as advertised.