The Lakers were already down 0-3 on their road trip and their last stop was Denver. With a thin lineup, they arrived knowing they’d face the full force of Nikola Jokic and Co.’s relentless attack. To make matters worse, the passionate Ball Arena crowd greeted them with boos. But giving up wasn’t on the table. The Lakers, missing stars LeBron James and Luka Doncic, seemed headed for a blowout loss. But they fought back to keep it close in a 131-126 defeat. And a big chunk of that credit goes to Dalton Knecht
Dalton Knecht’s 32-point explosion was his best performance in a Lakers uniform this season. He showcased his ability to score at all three levels. The 23-year-old rookie, often overlooked in the rotation, seized the moment with LeBron sidelined, proving he can be a reliable scoring option moving forward. Watching his fellow rookie rise to the occasion, Bronny James made a heartfelt confession.
During the postgame locker room interview Bronny was asked about sharing the stage with Dalton. He reminisced about their first time suiting up together last summer. “I had so much fun with him playing first time in Summer League and that was amazing,” the two-way guard stated. He then spoke proudly of the 23-year-old’s growth, both on and off the court. “I’m just so proud of him, just seeing his growth as a basketball player and as a person.” Bronny also reflected on the chemistry they share, saying, “That’s my guy. We have a good relationship off and on the court, so looking forward to seeing him grow.”
Both were drafted by the Lakers last year. But while Dalton secured his spot on the team, Bronny faced criticism for not meeting expectations. He was sent to the G League to develop his skills. However, he’s always ready when the team needs him. This time, with most of their key players on the injury list, Bronny was called up from South Bay to join the Lakers.
Oct 17, 2024; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) and Los Angeles Lakers guard Dalton Knecht (4) and Los Angeles Lakers guard Jalen Hood-Schifino (0) celebrate after defeating the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Dalton Knecht’s explosive 32-point effort and Austin Reaves’ playmaking brilliance (37 points, 13 assists) kept the Lakers competitive, slashing Denver’s lead to just five late in the game. But even Coach JJ Redick’s strategy for Bronny James worked.
JJ Redick’s plans for Bronny James pay off against Nuggets
The boos from the stadium grew louder in the final minutes of the opening quarter as Redick subbed in Bronny James. But the young guard remained composed. While his stats, 5 points and 2 rebounds, might suggest it was just another off night. However, his effort on the court went far beyond the numbers. It was his defense that actually stood out.
Talking about his performance in the interview, Bronny said, “Thought I was pretty good. The role I’m playing, being a defensive guy, making the right plays, knocking down a couple threes, just filling a role. I feel like that’s my biggest thing right now, is filling the role that my team needs. Obviously, we were down some guys, but, you know, just being ready, um, whenever I, you know, have to go out and play, as far as I can.”
JJ Redick has emphasized defense-first basketball since stepping into his coaching role. And Friday’s game showed that his message is sinking in. With Anthony Davis gone, Redick challenged Bronny to step up as a perimeter defender. Though his stats (5 points, 2 rebounds, 1 steal) won’t jump off the page, his on-ball defense and energy played a key role in keeping the Lakers competitive.
His clutch three-pointer drew cheers from a crowd that had booed him moments earlier. Overall, it was a solid outing for the young guard.
While the Lakers didn’t come away with the win, they put up a strong fight. It helped that the Nuggets team was already feeling the pressure. Despite the loss, the Lakers found a silver lining in Dalton Knecht’s breakout game and Bronny James’ defensive impact.
With key players returning soon, Redick will have a better sense of how his young core fits into the rotation. If Knecht continues his scoring surge and Bronny builds on his defensive role, they could become crucial pieces in LA’s playoff push
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