As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, attention has focused not only on Duke freshman Cooper Flagg but also on Los Angeles Lakers rookie guard Dalton Knecht, whose impressive 2024 NBA Draft Combine results have stirred discussions about athleticism comparisons. Knecht’s Lakers rookie guard combine performance has become a talking point, casting new light on how prospects like Flagg are evaluated within the NBA community.
Cooper Flagg’s Rising Status Ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft
Cooper Flagg, the standout freshman from Duke, is widely regarded as the likely No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft due to his exceptional two-way skills and defensive versatility. Standing 6-foot-9 and weighing 225 pounds, Flagg averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game during his sole collegiate season. His strong all-around game earned him prestigious awards including National Player of the Year and ACC Player of the Year, with many comparing him to established NBA stars such as Jayson Tatum and Kawhi Leonard. Flagg’s basketball intelligence and competitive nature have drawn praise from scouts and fans alike.
Dalton Knecht’s Combine Results Rival Top Prospects
Dalton Knecht, selected 17th overall by the Lakers in the 2024 NBA Draft, showcased exceptional athleticism and shooting skills during his draft combine. Knecht recorded a 39-inch max vertical jump and demonstrated elite agility metrics, impressing scouts with his physical capabilities. He excelled in shooting drills, converting 84% on spot-up shots and 72% on the move. These results placed him ahead of Flagg in analyst Nick Kalinowski’s athleticism model, as noted by Iztok Franko of Diggin Basketball, which sparked a debate among fans regarding each player’s athletic evaluation.
Fan Reactions Highlight Mixed Views on Athleticism
The online fan community responded enthusiastically to reports about Knecht’s combine performance, questioning preconceived notions about Flagg’s athleticism. One supporter commented,
“Knecht is a great athlete for sure,”
while another observed,
“Dalton Knecht’s potential is there, his biggest flaw on defense is court awareness.”
Another fan emphasized Knecht’s physical ability:
“People forget that he has a 39 inch vertical and elite agility times.”
A different voice raised a critical question, asking,
“Is it possible we’re overrating Flagg’s athleticism?”
These remarks reflect a growing curiosity about how both players’ skills will translate at the professional level.
Knecht’s Rookie Season and Lakers Future Amid Recent Developments
In his rookie season, Knecht averaged 9.1 points and 2.8 rebounds over 19.2 minutes per game, demonstrating glimpses of the potential his combine numbers suggested. Meanwhile, the Lakers’ roster decisions are under scrutiny, especially following recent news involving LeBron James. The team’s strategy moving forward remains uncertain, but Knecht’s performance might influence their long-term plans as they balance the integration of promising young talent with veterans.