The Los Angeles Lakers began their Summer League campaign in the California Classic with mixed results on Saturday night, spotlighting Cole Swider’s impressive performance amid Dalton Knecht’s ongoing difficulties. As the team looks ahead to the upcoming NBA season, Knecht’s struggles have drawn attention alongside Swider’s efficiency, underscoring the unpredictable nature of summer competition.
Swider’s Scoring Efficiency Dominates the Game
Cole Swider, formerly of Syracuse, emerged as a key contributor for the Lakers, demonstrating sharp shooting and offensive effectiveness. He connected on 7 of 10 field goal attempts, including an exceptional 6-for-8 from three-point range, and remained flawless at the free-throw line. Finishing with 24 points and securing eight rebounds, Swider’s ability to consistently find scoring opportunities underscored his value in the game and provided a bright spot for the Lakers.
Knecht’s Shooting Issues Create Early Doubts
In contrast, Dalton Knecht faced a challenging night, much to the concern of Lakers fans and coaching staff. Knecht managed to score only 10 points, shooting just 3 of 13 overall and failing to make any of his six attempts from beyond the arc. While this single performance does not determine his future, it raises questions about his capacity to make a significant impact moving forward, particularly given how crucial it is for returning players to use Summer League play for growth and confidence-building.
Looking Ahead to the Rest of the Summer League
Despite the uneven start, Lakers observers will be closely monitoring both players as the Summer League continues. Swider’s continued strong play could earn him more attention from NBA teams seeking promising talent, while Knecht will need to find ways to regain momentum and demonstrate why the Lakers have invested in his development. As the season approaches, the team’s ability to evaluate and develop young talent during these summer games will play an important role in shaping their roster and depth.
Broader NBA Context and Lakers’ Youth Development
With the league’s focus shifting toward trades and signings, the Lakers’ young contingent faces significant pressure to prove themselves in a competitive environment. Summer League offers a critical evaluation platform, where every game tests adaptability and potential. Maintaining a hopeful outlook, the team hopes these performances will help identify who can step up when the regular season begins, making this period essential for players like Knecht and Swider alike.
“This isn’t the first time he has excelled in Summer League play, and his recent display may warrant further consideration from NBA teams looking for talent.” —Anonymous Source
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How much money did Dalton Knecht make?
A. Dalton Knecht agreed to a four-year deal with the Los Angeles Lakers worth $18,483,220. The contract guarantees $7,829,280, and he will earn about $4,620,805 each year.
Q. How much money is Dalton Knecht making?
A. Dalton Knecht will earn $3,910,160 during the 2025-26 season. His contract offers $100,000 in likely bonuses, but no unlikely bonuses. Born on April 19, 2001, Knecht is a 24-year-old shooting guard. In the 2024 draft, the Los Angeles Lakers selected him 17th overall in the first round.