Will JJ Redick leave Dalton Knecht in Lakers starting lineup when Rui Hachimura returns?

Dalton Knecht has been the biggest story for the Los Angeles Lakers this past week as the rookie has become one of their top scoring threats.

Even on a team with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, Knecht has found a way to stand out, forcing head coach JJ Redick to play him more minutes. Touted as one of the best shooters in his draft class, Knecht made a huge statement in the Lakers’ recent win against the Utah Jazz, hitting nine 3-pointers en route to a career-high 37 points.

Knecht has been thrust into a bigger role due to injuries, with Rui Hachimura’s absence in particular opening the door for him. Hachimura has missed the last three games but is expected to return soon. That being the case, Redick was asked if he will consider keeping Knecht in the starting lineup when Hachimura returns.

“Yes, there are considerations,” Redick said before Thursday’s game against the Orlando Magic. “But there are also considerations about what it does to the group. We’ve certainly had conversations about what it could look like when Rui is back in the lineup.

“I would say right now that there is no final decision. My expectation is that Rui would stay in the starting line-up. He has been fantastic for us and I think for the group in whatever role that starts and I know I talked about it not being a “role,” but whatever designation Dalton has, whether he comes off the bench or as a starter, I don’t think his role changes at all. I think for him mentally, there is no influence on that. He just wants to be the same guy. As a coaching staff, we just have to be aware of getting him on the field longer.”

Despite the loss to the Magic, the starters benefited from having Knecht as a floor spacer, even if his defensive shortcomings were present. Redick closed with players like Cam Reddish and Max Christie, so maybe it’s best for Knecht to come off the bench as Hachimura would provide more resistance against bigger players.

Regardless of his role, however, Knecht is blessed to be on the Lakers and will continue to play an important role the rest of the way.

Dalton Knecht appreciates that Austin Reaves has confidence in him

Austin Reaves is one player on the roster who has had his eye on Knecht for a while. Reaves watched Dalton Knecht play at Tennessee, and now that they’re teammates, they’ve tried to pour into the rookie.

The two have a solid relationship, and Knecht acknowledged how much he appreciates Reaves’ trust in him.

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