Dalton Knecht

With every elevation and accurate 3-pointer that Dalton Knecht sent airborne during mid-November’s eruption, hoops observers were left entertaining one ironic question: how did the Los Angeles Lakers’ new sharpshooter fall to No. 17? Incapable of cooling down, even after going 23-of-36 — and a sizzling 12-of-19 from downtown — over the three games preceding the Utah Jazz matchup, Knecht attacked November 19, 2024’s matchup with almost-unheard-of accuracy. Over a 90-second span, Knecht buried déjà vu-like spot-up triples along the left slot, immediately followed by a third, and a shrug for added measure. Knowing all wouldn’t be right in the world unless he completed the “Knecht Four,” L.A.’s fearless rookie incorporates some off-the-dribble razzle-dazzle, subtly lulling Cody Williams before swishing through a crowd-igniting fourth trifecta. Ultimately keying Los Angeles’ West Group B win, Knecht’s still-discussed performance oversaw 37 points, five rebounds, and a steal, alongside elite efficiency overall (12-of-16), from deep (9-of-12), and from the charity stripe (four-of-five). History was, of course, attached, as Knecht tied for the most single-game 3-pointers made by a rookie.

Rookie Year

Rookie Mint