Dalton Knecht Embracing New Opportunity With Knicks

It was clear that Knecht lost his confidence over the last year and he never got his mojo back after a fiery start to his rookie campaign. A two-way contract presents less pressure to produce right away and an opportunity for the Tennessee product to find his way in New York.

Perhaps getting out of L.A. winds up doing wonders for Knecht, and it seems there is clearly weight lifted off his shoulders. For Knicks head coach Mike Brown to throw him out there in a blowout was a smart move to let him play freely.

Moving forward, general manager Rob Pelinka and the Lakers scouting department cannot afford to give up on first-round draft picks. However, it was clear that Knecht needed a change of scenery and hopefully he can get his careert back on track.

JJ Redick telegraphed Dalton Knecht’s Lakers exit

There were three players on the chopping block during training camp in Bronny James, Jaden Hardy and Knecht. Head coach JJ Redick’s actions spoke volumes by not giving Knecht considerable minutes during the preseason.

Leading up to the Lakers finalizing their roster ahead of Opening Night, Redick did not hold back on where Knecht stood with the team ahead of his impending waiver.

“I think the biggest thing is the team changed. The team changed. Needs changed, the fit changed. I think he’s gotten better as a player the last two years,” he said. “I think, particularly last year, each guy got plenty of opportunities with the injuries we had. I just think coming into this year, we added a lot of wings and he’s in a tough spot right now.”