Austin Reaves, one of the rising young stars of the Los Angeles Lakers, knows a thing or two about flying under the radar and making an impact when it matters most. So when he says someone is on the verge of a breakout, people listen. His latest vote of confidence? Dalton Knecht. The former Tennessee Volunteers standout and 2024 first-round pick has caught Reaves’ eye in offseason workouts and team activities, and the Lakers guard is making it clear: he believes Knecht is going to have a breakout campaign in the upcoming NBA season.
Reaves, who carved out a significant role on the Lakers through hustle, skill, and savvy decision-making, sees some of those same qualities in the 6-foot-6 Knecht. But it’s more than just shared traits—it’s the way Knecht has approached the opportunity. According to Reaves, the rookie’s hunger, work ethic, and fearlessness are standing out early in L.A.’s offseason grind. In a league where rookies often take a year or two to find their footing, Reaves is confident Knecht won’t need that much time.
“You can just tell he belongs,” Reaves said in a recent interview. “He competes like he’s been here. He works like he’s got something to prove every day. He’s not backing down from anybody. I love that.”
It’s not surprising that Reaves is quick to recognize that underdog spirit. After going undrafted in 2021, he earned his spot on the Lakers roster through sheer determination and basketball IQ. Reaves has since become a reliable two-way contributor and a fan favorite, especially after his breakout stretch during the 2023 playoffs. His trajectory gives him a unique lens for evaluating talent—especially players who are fighting to show the world they belong. In Knecht, Reaves sees not just talent, but that all-important drive.
Knecht arrived in Los Angeles after an explosive senior season at Tennessee, where he averaged 21.7 points per game and led the SEC in scoring. He was a finalist for the Naismith Award and won SEC Player of the Year honors, turning heads with his scoring versatility, perimeter shooting, and willingness to take big shots in big moments. Despite his college résumé, Knecht slid slightly in the draft, landing with the Lakers toward the end of the first round—a move many analysts now call a steal.
Reaves agrees. “He can score at all three levels, but it’s more than that,” Reaves said. “He plays with a chip on his shoulder. You can’t teach that.”
Since arriving in Los Angeles, Knecht has wasted no time making an impression. Lakers insiders have praised his readiness, adaptability, and competitiveness in workouts. Coaches have reportedly been impressed with how quickly he’s picked up the team’s terminology and concepts, particularly on the defensive end—an area where rookies often struggle. While the Lakers’ roster is deep with veteran talent, Knecht is already making a case to be in the rotation come opening night.
For a franchise that has often favored experienced players, especially in pursuit of championships alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, Knecht’s rise through the preseason ranks is noteworthy. But the Lakers also know the importance of developing young contributors—Reaves himself being a prime example. In Knecht, they might have found another player ready to deliver earlier than expected.
Reaves believes the transition from college to the pros won’t be as daunting for Knecht as it is for many first-year players. “He’s not afraid of the moment. You saw it at Tennessee—he had that mentality where he wanted the ball with the game on the line,” Reaves said. “That’s rare. And he’s bringing that same mindset here. That’s why I think he’s gonna take off.”
It helps that Knecht joins a locker room with a strong mix of leadership and youth. Veterans like James, Davis, and D’Angelo Russell have reportedly taken time to mentor Knecht, offering advice and support as he adjusts to the league’s speed and physicality. At the same time, younger players like Reaves and Max Christie have formed bonds with the rookie, creating an environment where development is encouraged, not rushed.
For Knecht, the key may be carving out a niche early—most likely as a floor spacer and secondary scorer who can punish opposing defenses that collapse on LeBron or AD. His college film shows a player with NBA range, excellent footwork coming off screens, and an instinct for finding gaps in defenses. If he can knock down threes consistently and hold his own on defense, the minutes will be there.
Reaves thinks it’s just a matter of time. “The league rewards guys who are tough and skilled. He’s both,” he said. “He’s already shown flashes in workouts. Once he gets comfortable, he’s going to open a lot of eyes.”
Off the court, Knecht is described as humble and focused, quietly going about his business while soaking up as much knowledge as he can. He’s repeatedly spoken about his respect for the game’s greats and the privilege of sharing a locker room with LeBron James. That humility, paired with his fire on the court, makes him a likable figure in the locker room and an easy player for fans to root for.
Reaves sees the fit as seamless. “Dalton’s the kind of guy who makes teams better. He doesn’t need the ball in his hands every possession, but when he gets it, he knows what to do with it. That’s valuable in this league, especially with the guys we have.”
Of course, the road to success in the NBA is rarely linear. There will be growing pains. Defensive coverages are more complex, athletes are faster, and scouting reports are merciless. But if there’s one thing Knecht has shown throughout his journey—from Northern Colorado to Tennessee and now the Lakers—it’s resilience. He’s faced long odds before and exceeded expectations at every turn.
Reaves, who has lived that reality himself, sees no reason to doubt the rookie now. “I’ve been around a lot of guys,” he said. “And when you see someone who’s built the right way—mentally and physically—you just know. Dalton’s one of those guys.”
As the Lakers prepare for a pivotal season with championship aspirations still alive in the LeBron-AD era, the emergence of Knecht could prove to be one of the season’s most exciting subplots. If he can give them consistent bench scoring and energy, it might change the dynamic of the team’s rotation—and give the Lakers a weapon they didn’t have last year.
For now, the buzz continues to grow. Every report out of team workouts seems to confirm what Reaves and others are seeing firsthand. Knecht isn’t waiting for permission to make his mark—he’s going for it.
And if Austin Reaves is right—and he usually is—Dalton Knecht might not just be a promising rookie. He might be one of the most impactful newcomers in the NBA next season.
