Lakers Share Dalton Knecht Message Ahead of NBA Playoffs

He enters the postseason averaging 9.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game. His role has fluctuated, especially following the Lakers’ blockbuster acquisition of Luka Doncic, which pushed the rotation into guard-heavy territory. 

Still, Knecht has made the most of his opportunities, scoring 20 or more points seven times this season—including a 27-point performance in the regular season finale against Portland.

Things nearly took a turn at the trade deadline when the Lakers reportedly included Knecht in a package to acquire Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams. 

That deal fell apart after Williams failed his physical, leaving Knecht back in L.A.—on a team that had just tried to move him.

To his credit, Knecht handled the situation like a pro and kept his focus on the floor. 

Now, he’s back in the fold and on the Lakers’ playoff roster as they prepare to face Anthony Edwards and the Timberwolves in what promises to be a physical, high-energy first-round matchup.

Will Knecht be an X-factor in his first playoff run? That remains to be seen. But with his birthday behind him and a wild rookie year under his belt, he’s ready for whatever comes next.