Dalton Knecht, the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2024 first-round draft pick, has been assigned to the South Bay Lakers, the team’s G League affiliate, following a recent win against the Golden State Warriors, the team announced Sunday.
The move comes after Knecht did not play in Saturday’s 105-99 victory over the Warriors. The assignment, along with that of Adou Thiero who is recovering from a sprained right MCL, is intended to provide both players with additional practice and game experience, according to the Lakers.
Knecht has appeared in 41 games for the Lakers this season, averaging 4.6 points per game while shooting 44 percent from the field and 31 percent from three-point range. His last appearance on the court was against the Philadelphia 76ers, where he played three minutes and scored two points.
Prior to the NBA trade deadline, Knecht reportedly requested a trade, but the Lakers were unable to find a suitable deal. He will remain with the team for the remainder of the season. The Lakers currently hold a record of 32-19, placing them fifth in the Western Conference.
The South Bay Lakers are scheduled to play the San Diego Clippers on Wednesday, February 11. The Los Angeles Lakers will face the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday and the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday in a back-to-back series before Knecht potentially returns to the main roster. The Lakers have not announced a definitive timeline for Knecht’s return.
According to NBA.com, Knecht was cleared to play as of February 10th, but was still listed as questionable due to right hamstring soreness.
