The Lakers’ current slump is undeniable – they’ve been outscored by 72 points during their three-game losing streak to Minnesota, Miami, and Atlanta. But let’s pump the brakes on the doomsday predictions flooding social media. The usual suspects are out in force, with clickbait headlines declaring the season over and JJ Redick’s coaching methods fraudulent. It’s the predictable influencer-driven cycle of hot takes and manufactured outrage.
The truth, as always, lies somewhere in the middle. Yes, the Lakers sit 10th in the Western Conference. Yes, LeBron James and Anthony Davis have seen their efficiency dip. But context matters – James is 39 and coming off Olympic play. His fatigue isn’t exactly shocking. The team’s depth has been hammered by injuries, creating rotational challenges that would test any squad.
The more measured analysis comes from those focusing on the Lakers’ need for strategic trades before the deadline. However, many proposed scenarios, particularly those involving Trae Young, suggest giving up rookie sensation Dalton Knecht. For a franchise looking to build sustainable success, trading away such promising young talent would be shortsighted at best.
While the Lakers clearly need reinforcement, hitting the panic button this early into the season serves no one. This isn’t about making excuses – it’s about maintaining perspective. If this were any other team, the conversation would be far more measured. But these are the Lakers, where every stumble becomes a crisis and every loss spawns a thousand hot takes.
The path forward requires patience and strategic thinking, making smart, calculated moves to address genuine weaknesses. The season is young, and premature burial rites say more about the current state of sports media than they do about the Lakers’ actual prospects.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Dalton Knecht. Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images© Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images
Why the Lakers Need Knecht
Should the lakers weigh their trade options? Yes. However, it’s equally important for them to pinpoint the young talent that’s worth investing in. Rookie standout Dalton Knecht is proving that, in the future, he could have the potential to evolve into a franchise defining player.
1. Three Point Prowess
Earlier this season, Knecht tied the NBA rookie record for most three pointers made in a single game (9). The Lakers lack the three point sharpshooting that coach Redick was expected to bring to the team. For Redick’s coaching strategy to work to full effect, he’ll need to elevate Knecht’s role in the lineup.
2. Solid Handles
While Knecht is not typically categorized as an “elite” or “highly skilled” ball handler; his strength lies more in his shooting ability and offensive versatility, allowing him to attack closeouts and get to the basket effectively, but not necessarily with complex dribbling moves. Nevertheless, there’s room for growth and he does have the ability to drive to the rim – a skill many rookie guards lack.
3. Perfect Fit for Redick’s Strategy
Redick’s offensive strategy hinges on dynamic lineups and constant fluid movement. Knecht’s ability to drive, dunk, and shoot threes makes him the perfect fit for Redick’s formula.
4. Maturity
While many NBA GMs were hesitant to draft Knecht, referring to his age (23) as a determining factor, what these GMs failed to realize was that Knecht’s age is actually a benefit. He has already played with a diversity of players and is prepared to make adjustments without letting his ego get in the way.
5. Price Tag
According to Spotrac, Dalton Knecht signed a four-year rookie contract with the Los Angeles Lakers worth $18.4 million with $7.8 million guaranteed at signing. The average salary for a superstar in the NBA is between $30-50 million. Knecht’s experience means that he could turn into a superstar faster than many other players. If that happens, his early career would cost the Lakers significantly less money than any superstar they might get in exchange for him.