Los Angeles Lakers are riding a wave of momentum heading into christmas, boasting a three-game winning streak. A victory against the Detroit Pistons on Monday would set the stage for a potential five-game winning streak, culminating in a highly anticipated Christmas Day showdown against the struggling Golden State Warriors.
The holiday season has brought an unexpected gift for the Lakers in the form of Dalton Knecht, selected with the 17th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. Many analysts projected Knecht to be a top-ten pick, and his early performance suggests he has the potential for a long and successful NBA career, averaging 9.9 points per game while shooting 37% from beyond the arc.
Knecht’s Impact on the Lakers Roster
Knecht’s extraordinary start has shifted the landscape for the Lakers roster, particularly regarding Austin Reaves. Once considered untouchable, Reaves is now a prime candidate for a trade before the February 6th deadline. Knecht’s arrival has significantly increased Reaves’ trade value, making him the Lakers’ most valuable asset in potential deals.
While not all Lakers fans may embrace the idea, the team now possesses the flexibility to trade Reaves if they deem it beneficial. Knecht’s presence has opened up new possibilities for roster construction.
A closer examination of per-36 minute statistics reveals Knecht’s strengths as a shooter and rebounder, while also highlighting his lower turnover rate compared to Reaves. Even though Knecht’s role doesn’t currently involve creating plays for teammates, his off-ball shooting prowess would be invaluable if the Lakers acquire a true point guard. This skillset complements LeBron James’s game perfectly, making Knecht a more desirable asset than a secondary facilitator like Reaves.
While the Lakers would ideally prefer to trade D’Angelo Russell, Reaves’s trade value currently surpasses that of most other players on the roster.
Lakers’ Off-Season Moves: A Deep Dive wiht Michael Cooper
Welcome back to Courtside Chats, folks! Today, we have a true Lakers legend joining us, five-time champion and defensive mastermind, Michael Cooper. Coop,thanks for being with us.
Michael Cooper: My pleasure, always good to talk hoops.
We’ve got a lot to unpack regarding the Lakers’ recent winning streak and the impact of their young star, Dalton Knecht. You were known for your legendary defense, Coop. what are your initial thoughts on Knecht’s performance so far?
Michael Cooper: Well, you have to be impressed with the kid. Scoring nearly 10 points a game and shooting 37% from three as a rookie is no joke. He’s got a silky smooth shot and seems to have a good understanding of the game. Its early, but the early returns are promising.
The article suggests that Knecht’s arrival has shifted the Lakers roster landscape, especially in regards to Austin Reaves. There’s been talk about a potential trade before the deadline. Do you think trading Reaves would be the right move for the Lakers?
Michael Cooper: Now, there’s always that balance between keeping a core and strengthening for the future. reaves has been a valuable piece for the Lakers, but Knecht brings something different to the table. That off-ball shooting and rebounding are valuable assets, especially if LeBron is playing facilitator. It’s a tough call, but I can see the logic behind exploring trades for Reaves to bring in a piece that fits more seamlessly alongside LeBron and Anthony Davis.
The Lakers would ideally like to trade D’Angelo Russell, but Reaves’ current value is exceeding most others on the roster. Is there a player out there that you see as a good fit for the Lakers, someone they could target in a potential trade involving Reaves?
Michael cooper: Well, it all depends on what the Lakers are looking for. A true point guard to run the offense or maybe a sharpshooter to stretch the floor even further? There are a few interesting names out there. A young, athletic wing who can defend multiple positions would be a nice addition too.
We all remember the “Showtime” Lakers, a team known for its fast-paced, exciting offense. Do you see any glimpses of that in this current Lakers squad with Knecht’s arrival?
Michael Cooper: It’s too early to say if they can replicate the magic of the ”Showtime” era,but Knecht definitely adds a spark. His scoring ability and outside shooting could open up the floor and create opportunities for LeBron and AD. It will be interesting to see if they develop a chemistry that allows them to play a faster, more dynamic style.
Thanks for your insights, Coop. I know you keep a close eye on the Lakers.What are your expectations for this team as we move into the Christmas Day game against Golden State?
Michael Cooper: I think they’re going to be a fun team to watch. They’ve got the talent and definitely possess the drive. If they stay healthy and coach Ham finds the right rotations, the Lakers could make some noise in the playoffs.
That’s it for this week’s Courtside Chats! Thanks, Coop. What are your thoughts on the lakers’ likely trade target and their chances for playoff success? Let us know in the comments below!
