JJ Redick has more options heading into his second season as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers.
And he’s not the only one starting his second year with the team, as Dalton Knecht is also about to begin his sophomore campaign.
Speaking with the media, Redick opened up about Knecht’s work during training camp and confirmed that he’s had the best offensive camp of any player.
Still, he said he sees room for growth in the young up-and-comer.
“JJ Redick says Dalton Knecht has had the best offensive training camp out of any Lakers player – they track the data and he’s scored 42 points more than any other teammate in live play and at about a 60% shooting clip. But Redick says Knecht’s ceiling will be up to his defense,” McMenamin posted on X.
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Knecht gained a good deal of attention during his rookie stint in LA, averaging 9.1 points and 2.8 rebounds on 46.1 percent from the field.
He was clearly adjusting to life in the NBA and can still develop more.
He also faced a very unique and uncomfortable situation when the Lakers attempted to trade him before the deal involving him fell apart.
That likely left Knecht feeling unsure of his role and future with the team.
But Redick is making it clear that Knecht has a lot of value, and he will still be a crucial part of the LA’s plans.
However, like all other Lakers members, Knecht needs to work on his defense.
This team is going to thrive or fall because of defense, and they require everyone to find new ways to be two-way players.
Knecht wants to build upon the success he found in his first year, and he wishes to expand his game.
According to Redick, the Lakers want that as well.