Lakers rookie talks to JJ Redick 'every single day,' reveals his biggest advice

Los Angeles Lakers guard Dalton Knecht. Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Lakers' Dalton Knecht talks to JJ Redick 'every single day,' reveals his biggest advice

By Jeff Smith | Last updated Jul 17, 2024 8:27 AM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers front office and new head coach JJ Redick were overwhelmingly excited when Dalton Knecht fell to them at No. 17 in the first round of the 2024 NBA Draft. And from the sound of it, Redick may have big plans for the rookie out of Tennessee.

While the Lakers have only played two games in the 2024 NBA Summer League thus far, Knecht has impressed. Following the team's second game against the Boston Celtics, Knecht spoke to Khobi Price of Southern California News Group and revealed he's talked to Redick "every single day" throughout Summer League play.

Knecht also revealed the biggest piece of advice he's received from his new head coach.

Dalton Knecht said he and JJ Redick have talked "every single day" throughout summer league.

Knecht's response when asked what's been the biggest piece of advice he's gotten so far: pic.twitter.com/hJGyv3LaI4
— Khobi Price (@khobi_price) July 16, 2024

Knecht's upside as a scorer is apparent from his collegiate career with Northern Colorado and Tennessee. After averaging 20.2 points with Northern Colorado in 2022-2023, Knecht averaged 21.7 points with the Volunteers last season. He also improved his three-point shooting in all three seasons from 2021-2022 through 2023-2024 when he made 39.7 percent of his attempts from deep.

While it's a small sample size, Knecht's play in the early stages of the Summer League has added to the intrigue and excitement surrounding him. Knecht currently leads the team in points per game (22.0) and steals (2.0) and is third in rebounding (4.5 per game). While he's shooting 41 percent from the field, he's knocked down an impressive 41.2 percent of his attempts from three-point range.

With the Lakers failing to make any big moves to improve their roster this offseason, a player like Knecht could be a prime candidate to earn a spot in the rotation as a rookie. His outside shooting would be a welcomed sight for the Lakers, who would benefit from having consistency beyond the arc alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis this season.

Jeff Smith

Jeff Smith has extensive experience as a sports writer and editor, including stops at ESPN, FOX Sports, CBS Sports, USA TODAY SMG, and Heavy. Jeff's passion for sports content starts and finishes with writing and he's grateful to be able to work in that field on a daily basis.

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