Austin Reaves reveals: Dalton Knecht will be a ‘big hit’ in the NBA next season

Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves may have an uncertain future with the franchise, but that hasn’t stopped him from investing in the Lakers’ long-term success. And one name he believes fans should pay very close attention to? Dalton Knecht.

In a recent interview with Lakers Nation, Reaves was full of praise for the second-year swingman, predicting a breakout season for the sharp-shooting forward in 2025. According to Reaves, Knecht isn’t just a shooter — he’s a multi-level scorer, a student of the game, and most importantly, a player who is starting to figure out what it takes to thrive in the NBA.

Locked In and Hungry: Dalton Knecht’s Work Ethic Turns Heads

“I got Dalton,” Reaves said. “I’ve heard that he’s been locked in for the last 2-3 weeks in L.A., working out two or three times a day. His talent level is definitely there.”

For a player who saw inconsistent playing time in his rookie season, Knecht seems to be making all the right moves off the court. Reaves pointed out a major shift in Knecht’s approach, especially after a rough patch late in the season when he fell out of JJ Redick’s rotation.

Reaves recalled a conversation with Knecht after a loss to the Bulls, where Josh Giddey hit a buzzer-beater. In the quiet of the locker room, Knecht asked a telling question:

“What do I need to do to get on the court?”

To Reaves, this was a turning point. It showed humility, hunger, and — perhaps most importantly — curiosity. “He started to ask questions and be curious in situations where earlier in the year he wasn’t,” said Reaves.

That development may be the spark Knecht needed to unlock his true potential.

The Tools Are There: Size, Skill, and Shot-Making

Reaves didn’t hold back when describing Knecht’s offensive game.

“You look at a game like Denver in Denver when nobody played, he goes and has I think 35,” he said, referring to a breakout performance in which Knecht torched the Nuggets despite the absence of key Lakers starters.

“His shot-making ability is through the roof… I think that he can make any shot in basketball,” Reaves continued. “And he’s 6’7”, wingspan is long, he’s athletic. So all the tools are there.”

Indeed, Knecht entered the NBA with a reputation as one of the best pure shooters in his draft class. Selected by the Lakers with the 17th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, the former Tennessee star immediately turned heads in Summer League, showcasing not just range but an underrated ability to finish at the rim and pull up in mid-range.

He has also proven that he’s not just a catch-and-shoot player — he can create off the dribble, attack closeouts, and score from all three levels.

Defensive Development: The Missing Piece?

So what kept Knecht off the court for large stretches of his rookie season?

Presumably, it was his defensive shortcomings.

JJ Redick, known for his high basketball IQ and emphasis on detail, may have felt Knecht wasn’t ready to defend NBA-level wings. However, Reaves sees hope.

Knecht performed well in athletic drills at the NBA Draft Combine, showcasing the agility and foot speed needed to eventually become a capable defender. With his length, size, and frame, there’s no reason he can’t develop into a plus defender with time and effort.

A Core Emerging in L.A.?

While LeBron James and Anthony Davis still dominate headlines, the Lakers’ long-term outlook could hinge on players like Dalton Knecht, Austin Reaves, and potentially Luka Doncic if offseason rumors prove true.

Reaves himself has made it clear that he wants to remain a Laker for life, even though trade speculation continues to swirl around his name. But as long as he’s in L.A., he’s committed to helping the team — and players like Knecht — take the next step.

“So very excited about that,” Reaves said, referring to Knecht’s progress. “The mindset is getting to where we want it.”

It’s clear that Reaves sees a little of his own journey in Knecht — a talented, overlooked player who had to scrap for minutes before earning a permanent role. And now, with hard work and a growing understanding of the league, Knecht may be ready to explode.

Lakers Nation, Keep Your Eyes on Dalton

If Knecht continues his offseason grind and translates that work into results on the floor, he could become one of the NBA’s surprise breakout players in 2025. The size, shooting, athleticism, and now the mental edge all seem to be coming together.

With Redick looking to instill a more modern, high-tempo offense and defensive accountability, a locked-in Knecht could become a perfect two-way contributor in the Lakers’ evolving system.

Austin Reaves has seen it firsthand — and he’s betting big on Dalton Knecht. The only question now is: Will the Lakers give him the minutes to shine?

One thing’s for sure: If they do, Knecht won’t disappoint.