Lakers' Surprising Draft Moves: Bronny James and Dalton Knecht Join the Roster
In an unexpected turn of events, the Los Angeles Lakers made headlines last week by selecting Bronny James, the 19-year-old son of NBA icon LeBron James, as the 55th pick in the draft. The young James averaged 4.8 points on 36.6% shooting, along with 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game during his tenure at USC. His selection has naturally drawn a lot of attention, given his lineage and the pressures associated with being the offspring of an NBA legend.
"I've already seen it on social media and stuff, and the Internet and stuff and talking about that I might not deserve an opportunity. But I've been dealing with stuff like this my whole life. So it's nothing different, but it's more amplified, for sure. But I'll get through it," Bronny James commented on his initial reactions to joining the Lakers.
Supporting Bronny's arrival is JJ Redick, the newly appointed head coach of the Lakers. "Rob and I did not give Bronny anything. Bronny has earned this. ... Bronny has earned this through hard work," Redick stated, emphasizing that the young guard was chosen based on merit.
Welcoming Dalton Knecht
The Lakers also made a significant move by drafting Dalton Knecht with the No. 17 pick. Knecht, fresh off of being named the 2024 SEC Player of the Year at the University of Tennessee, brings impressive stats with him, having averaged 21.7 points on 45.8% shooting, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.8 assists. The promising talent inked his contract with the Lakers on Tuesday and is set to wear No. 4.
Knecht, like Bronny, is eager to prove his worth. "Rob has told me that there's a great development system here, so I just want to come in and get my work in and get better every day," Knecht shared, expressing his enthusiasm for joining the Lakers.
Building for the Future
The Lakers have outlined a clear strategy for developing their new recruits and existing young talent, aiming for substantial participation in the Summer League. The development process will be overseen by Dane Johnson, coach of the South Bay Lakers, in both San Francisco and Las Vegas. JJ Redick will also play a hands-on role. "I will be heavily involved in practices. I will also be involved in some capacity during the games, during film, all of that. We talk about development, it's an incredible opportunity for Dane and his staff to develop further," Redick detailed.
Rob Pelinka, the vice president of basketball operations and general manager of the Lakers, expressed readiness to make strategic moves if the right opportunity arises. "I think if the right deal comes and we have to put in draft picks, we will. We're now in the apron world. We've seen contending teams or championship-level teams have to lose players. That's a result of the apron world we're living in. So, does it make trades more challenging? Yes. Does it make good trades impossible? No," Pelinka explained.
Uncertain Waters Ahead
Adding a twist to the storyline is the status of LeBron James, who currently is not under contract with the Lakers. According to his agent, Rich Paul, LeBron would consider a pay cut if it meant teaming up with another impactful player. This revelation only adds to the intrigue surrounding the Lakers' future roster moves.
Bronny James, meanwhile, dismissed speculation about playing alongside his father. "I never really had a thought of me going to play with my dad. But that's always there to take part of. But that wasn't the main focus of mine," he clarified.
Overcoming Challenges
The young James has had to contend with more than just the pressure of high expectations. He underwent a heart procedure last summer, further adding to the challenges he faces as he embarks on his professional career. Yet, his determination remains undeterred. "I feel like I could've been perfecting my game more. I feel like I've been given the opportunity to showcase what I can really do because I wasn't given that much of an opportunity at SC. I'm excited for what is to come," Bronny said.
As the Lakers continue their preparations for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on how their new acquisitions integrate into the team's dynamic. With the guidance of JJ Redick and the developmental focus promised by the organization, both Bronny James and Dalton Knecht have the potential to emerge as significant contributors.