Lakers’ Regret Over Dalton Knecht Grows as 2024 Draft Alternatives Break Out

The Los Angeles Lakers entered the 2024 NBA Draft confident that Dalton Knecht was the right pick — an experienced college scorer who could contribute early and fit a roster built to compete right away.

One year later, that selection is aging far worse than the organization hoped.

With the Lakers finally healthy and operating with a full rotation, Knecht has found himself on the outside looking in, struggling to carve out consistent minutes. Meanwhile, the three players taken directly after him — Tristan Da Silva, Ja’Kobe Walter, and Jaylon Tyson — are not only playing, but thriving.

🔥 Da Silva, Walter, and Tyson Are Surging

Tristan Da Silva stepped into a larger role in Orlando after Paolo Banchero’s injury and has delivered immediately. His shooting, cutting, and floor-spacing have made him a natural fit in the Magic’s system — exactly the type of offensive versatility the Lakers lack off the bench.

In Toronto, Ja’Kobe Walter has become one of the Raptors' most reliable perimeter defenders. His point-of-attack pressure, clean footwork, and disruptive athleticism have made him a defensive standout. Add in efficient three-point shooting, and he looks like the kind of two-way wing the Lakers desperately need.

Meanwhile in Cleveland, Jaylon Tyson has transitioned smoothly from a heavy college usage role to a polished off-ball contributor. His shooting confidence, off-ball instincts, and consistent defensive energy have made him a steady rotation piece for a playoff-level Cavaliers squad.

🟣 The Contrast With Knecht

Knecht’s early flashes of scoring promise have given way to inconsistency. Defensively, he hasn’t made enough progress to stay on the floor, and on offense, his scoring hasn’t outweighed the concerns.

As his peers grow rapidly into productive NBA players, the gap has only widened — intensifying the sense that Los Angeles may have misread the draft board.

📉 A Frustrating Case of “What Could Have Been”

All three players selected after Knecht fill roles the Lakers currently lack:

• Reliable shooting (Da Silva)
• Perimeter defense (Walter)
• Two-way wing depth (Tyson)

Instead, the Lakers are still trying to figure out where Knecht fits long-term — and the patience is being tested as the rest of his draft class gains momentum.

Despite that, the organization still believes in Knecht’s potential. But a year and a half into his career, the reality is unmistakable: the 2024 pick looks more questionable every day.