Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick praised rookie Dalton Knecht’s performance in the Lakers’ recent 128-123 comeback victory over the Memphis Grizzlies.
Facing a nine-point deficit and with Anthony Davis in foul trouble, Redick turned to Knecht, who responded by sinking consecutive three-pointers to ignite the Lakers’ rally.
Knecht’s shots helped energize the crowd and the Lakers’ bench, bringing the team back into contention as they battled to secure the win.
“I thought he was the catalyst for our comeback,” Redick stated postgame. He emphasized that Knecht’s back-to-back threes were pivotal, saying they “gave us a new life,” especially when the team struggled to get defensive stops and maintain control offensively.
Knecht’s performance earned further praise from Redick, who acknowledged the rookie’s growth, particularly in his focus and defensive resilience.
“Not just shooting the ball,” Redick remarked, noting that Knecht had been stepping up to the coaching staff’s challenge to be “tougher” and “more in tune with our game plan.”
Redick called the game an essential step forward for Knecht, who finished with 19 points, hitting all five of his three-point attempts.
Knecht’s efforts complemented an outstanding game from LeBron James, who led the Lakers with 35 points, 12 rebounds, and 14 assists.
James kept Los Angeles competitive down the stretch, while Davis contributed 21 points and 14 rebounds. Rui Hachimura added 19 points and seven rebounds, and Austin Reaves chipped in with 18 points and six assists.
Knecht is averaging 6.1 points in 16.9 minutes per game this season.
