Lakers Superstar LeBron James’ Dalton Knecht Shoutout Goes Viral After Draft Steal

The Los Angeles Lakers didn’t select Bronny James in the first round of the NBA Draft, but they did get a talented player. Many would agree that Dalton Knecht is definitely a draft steel and LeBron James sure shares the same opinion. The Lakers front office didn’t trade the No.17 overall pick and stayed in the game. The Tennessee Volunteers sharpshooter seems to be an ideal draft pick for the team. Knecht was definitely turning heads with his performance this past season.

Someone dug up a comment LeBron made on Knecht back in March and it’s everything you need to know about their team-up. The four-time NBA champion was more than impressed by Knecht and he was pretty loud about his talent and skill set.

“We watched that Purdue-Tennessee game because of Zach Edey and [Dalton] Knecht. Players depending on who they are will drive attention when it comes to viewership,” LeBron said back in March, via ClutchPoints Twitter (X).

“We watched that Purdue-Tennessee game because of Zach Edey and [Dalton] Knecht… Players depending on who they are will drive attention.”

LeBron James was showing love to Knecht during March Madness 🔥

(via @mcten) pic.twitter.com/dtVMRTuhds

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) June 27, 2024

LeBron, Lakers have great expectations from Knecht

Knecht has the right skills and mindset to win. He is joining a great franchise and has to get used to the media attention. Playing alongside LeBron and Anthony Davis is a challenge itself, but Knecht seems to be more than happy to accept it.

The Lakers viewed Knecht as a decent option and someone who is deserving of their trust. They got Jalen Hood-Schifino last year, but he didn’t really meet expectations. We have a few good reasons to believe that Knecht will take a different route.

Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka had a few targets to consider ahead of the draft. The team showed interest in Devin Carter, but he was selected early in the first round. Although Brett Siegel from ClutchPoints expected Knecht to be gone by pick seven and see him join the Portland Trail Blazers, it didn’t happen. It’s a great opportunity for the sharpshooter and the Lakers have to get the best of his talent.