It has been just over a month since the Los Angeles Lakers shook the NBA world by acquiring Luka Doncic in a blockbuster trade that sent Anthony Davis and Max Christie to the Dallas Mavericks. However, that wasn’t the only trade ahead of the Feb. 6 deadline that made headlines.

In their search for a big man, the Lakers initially agreed to send rookie Dalton Knecht to the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for center Mark Williams. But in a dramatic twist, the deal was rescinded after Williams failed his physical, bringing Knecht back to Los Angeles in an awkward situation.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Dalton Knecht (4)

 

Despite the difficult siutuation, Knecht has remained professional, and his patience finally paid off on Sunday night. With Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves sidelined due to injuries, the 23-year-old received meaningful minutes in the Lakers’ 108-102 win over the Los Angeles Clippers.

Knecht delivered his best performance since the trade, scoring 19 points on an efficient 7-of-10 shooting while adding four rebounds off the bench.

After the game, Knecht was asked about his growth since the failed trade, and he made it clear that confidence has been key.

 

“Mainly just staying confident on the court… playing out there confident with my teammates,” Knecht said. “My teammates know what I can do, and I’m just trying to stay consistent for them and make life easy for my teammates.”

Knecht has appeared in 56 games this season, averaging 8.9 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 0.8 assists in 19.8 minutes per game. While his overall numbers may not jump off the page, performances like Sunday’s prove he has the potential to be a valuable role player in JJ Redick’s rotation.

Playing alongside two of the league’s best in Doncic and LeBron James could be crucial for Knecht’s development, and with Reaves’ status still uncertain, he may get another opportunity to contribute when the Lakers face the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday.