In the wake of the 2024 NBA Draft, the Los Angeles Lakers are grappling with a growing sense of regret over their selection of Dalton Knecht. Initially seen as a promising pick, Knecht’s standing has diminished significantly in the 2025 season. With the team’s roster nearly at full strength, he finds himself struggling for minutes, while other players drafted shortly after him shine with their respective teams.
Lakers’ Draft Decision Haunts Them
Selected in the second round, Knecht’s potential was encouraged, but current circumstances reveal a stark contrast to the optimism. Meanwhile, several of his contemporaries have quickly become essential players for their franchises, underscoring the Lakers’ miscalculation.
Standout Performers from the 2024 Draft
- Tristan Da Silva (18th Pick): Now an integral part of the Orlando Magic, Da Silva is proving to be a significant contributor. Following an injury to star player Paolo Banchero, Da Silva stepped up into the starting lineup. His ability to stretch the floor has made him a valuable asset.
- Ja’Kobe Walter (19th Pick): With the Toronto Raptors, Walter has established himself as a tenacious defender. He has consistently contributed to the team’s success, not only with his defensive skills but also with his shooting efficiency, making 42.9% of his three-point attempts.
- Jaylon Tyson (20th Pick): For the Cleveland Cavaliers, Tyson has become an effective two-way player. Transitioning from a prominent role in college, he has found success as an off-ball contributor, which is highly valuable for a championship contender.
The Damage to the Lakers’ Roster
The Lakers’ offense is currently struggling, making the absence of capable shooters like Da Silva and Walter even more pronounced. The team’s need for strong defenders is also evident. Their choice of Knecht, in retrospect, seems to have overlooked the potential impact of these emerging talents.
As the 2025 season progresses, the disparity in contributions from these players compared to Knecht highlights a grim reality for the Lakers. The excitement around Knecht’s drafting has dimmed as his performance fails to keep pace with those selected immediately after him.
In summary, while Rob Pelinka and the Lakers’ front office hoped to draft a future star, the emergence of players like Da Silva, Walter, and Tyson has painted a different narrative. The team’s needs could have been addressed more effectively, leaving fans to ponder what might have been had different choices been made.
