Here's a revised and concise version of the provided text about the Lakers' selection of Dalton Knecht:
Here's a revised and concise version of the provided text about the Lakers' selection of Dalton Knecht:
**EL SEGUNDO, Calif. -- The Los Angeles Lakers drafted Dalton Knecht from Tennessee with the No. 17 pick in Wednesday's NBA draft, marking the first consensus All-American selection by L.A. since Lonzo Ball in 2017.**
Lakers VP of basketball operations and GM Rob Pelinka expressed surprise and delight at Knecht's availability, stating, "In my mind, there is no way a player like this will be available for us to pick on draft night."
Knecht, 23, impressed with 21.7 points per game on 49.9% shooting (39.7% from 3) in his only season with the Volunteers, leading Tennessee to the Elite Eight and scoring 37 points against Purdue. Initially projected to go No. 6 in ESPN's mock draft, Pelinka highlighted that the Lakers had Knecht ranked in their top 10.
"If we would have had the 10th pick in the draft, we would have taken him," Pelinka said. "So, to get that value at 17 is really extraordinary."
This draft marks a significant decision for the Lakers under new coach JJ Redick, who quickly started devising plays for Knecht, likening his movement shooting to Redick's own playing style. Knecht, thrilled by Redick's excitement, remarked on how special it will be to play for him.
LeBron James had previously praised Knecht after Tennessee's tournament run, adding a layer of anticipation for the upcoming season. Knecht recalled the moment as surreal, saying, "I thought it was fake because tons of people were texting me... It's going to be fun just to be sharing that court with both of them, [Anthony Davis] and Bron."
Despite attempts to explore trade options, Pelinka noted the challenges under the new CBA. The Lakers, holding the 55th pick in the second round, are focused on strengthening their roster, with Pelinka concluding, "Even this pick alone gives us a big boost, and we're excited about it."
The second round of the draft continues Thursday.
This version emphasizes key points and highlights the excitement surrounding Dalton Knecht's selection, while maintaining a focus on the Lakers' strategic outlook.
