The Lakers selected Dalton Knecht and Bronny James in the 2024 NBA Draft. While James is not expected to make a significant impact this season, Knecht is anticipated to play an important role.
Knecht was expected to be picked much earlier but fell to No. 17, where the Lakers were pleased to choose him. He is expected to thrive in Redick’s system as a much-needed floor spacer and scorer, becoming a vital part of the team’s rotation.
Before Knecht’s arrival, Max Christie was seen as the young player with the most expectations for the upcoming season. Despite appearing in only 108 games in his first two years, the Lakers signed the 21-year-old to a four-year, $32 million deal to keep him off restricted free agency. Last season, Christie averaged 4.2 points in 14.1 minutes, indicating the Lakers are betting on his potential rather than his current output.
At just 21, Christie has already demonstrated he can be a 40 percent catch-and-shoot player, is an above-average rebounder at 6-foot-8, and possesses the tools to be a strong defender, positioning him as a promising 3-and-D wing.
Jalen Hood-Schifino, a 6-foot-5 point guard, may be called upon to support the inconsistent D’Angelo Russell and the injury-prone Gabe Vincent. Maxwell Lewis, another potential 3-and-D wing, is still developing but offers promise.
Colin Castleton, a second-year center who previously played on a two-way contract, has signed a similar deal for this season. The 6-foot-10, 250-pound former Florida standout averaged 14.1 points, 9.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.6 blocks in 28.6 minutes during 14 starts in the G League last year.
He showcased his dominant potential in the 2024 Summer League with five double-doubles, including a standout game with 18 points, 11 rebounds, three assists, four blocks, and two steals.
Knecht is expected to be part of Redick’s rotation this season, while Christie will likely see some action as well. Although Lewis, Hood-Schifino, and Castleton may not be immediate regulars, they could contribute as needed.
The Lakers’ success will heavily depend on James and Davis, but the contributions from their young players will be crucial if they aim for the NBA Finals.
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