Lakers' LeBron James endorsing rookie Dalton Knecht feels important

Dalton Knecht is emerging as the steal of the 2024 NBA Draft. The rookie has enjoyed a stellar start to his career with the Los Angeles Lakers. Over his first 19 games, Knecht is averaging 12.2 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.2 assists. He's shooting 49.7% from the field and 43.9% from three-point range.

Knecht's success from the perimeter makes him an essential part of JJ Redick's rotation. The Lakers have been screaming for a genuine three-point threat for years. They need all the spacing they can muster if they want the LeBron James and Anthony Davis partnership to reach its optimal level.

Of course, it also helps that Knecht has had some big scoring nights since entering the league. He dropped 27 on the New Orleans Pelicans on Nov. 16. He then followed that up with a 37-point performance against the Utah Jazz on Nov. 19. He's also had back-to-back 20-point nights in his last two outings. 

When speaking to the media following the Lakers' loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday, James had some high praise for Knecht and what he means to the Lakers.

“Dalton fits in anything you want to do,” LeBron said.” So he’s going to continue to make his mistakes, which is OK as a rookie. Obviously, his first time experiencing these things for the first time in this league. And then, offensively, he’s going to do what he needs to do. Shoots the ball extremely well. He can attack. Sneaky athletic, but good to have him on the floor, no matter what position he’s playing. He’s a piece for us.”

When it comes to young talent wearing a Lakers jersey, there's always a concern they will be traded at the earliest opportunity. Rob Pelinka has a history of flipping young talents for proven veterans as he searches for another championship-contending roster.

This is the second time James has spoken glowingly about Knecht. It feels like he's sending a message to the front office that the rookie should be kept out of trade talks. James clearly sees something in Knecht and values what he's already bringing to the floor. 

Pelinka may need to look elsewhere for trade chips if he plans to be active at the Feb. 6 trade deadline. After all, Knecht is proving to be a difference-maker as a rookie, so there's no telling how much he can improve in the coming years.

Elite teams need elite role players. In Knecht, Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves, the Lakers have three of them to build around. This season might not lead to a championship, but it's an exciting time for the Purple and Gold. And it would appear James thinks so, too.