JJ Redick gives rookie Dalton Knecht license to ‘shoot first, pass later’

Lakers HC JJ Redick was spotted giving important advice to his rookie Dalton Knecht in a recent practice session.

JJ Redick gives rookie Dalton Knecht license to ‘shoot first, pass later’

JJ Redick and Dalton Knecht

The Los Angeles Lakers have made a promising start to their 2024-25 NBA season, winning four out of the six games they have played. Interestingly, they appointed former NBA player JJ Redick as their new head coach a few months ago. The Lakers’ management searched extensively for the HC role before settling on Redick. That said, their decision seems to be paying off gradually.

Redick is known for one-on-one coaching, especially with young and budding NBA rookies. Similarly, Redick gave rookie Dalton Knecht some straightforward advice. This was during a recent Los Angeles Lakers practice. He made it apparent that he wants Knecht to take a more aggressive, ‘shoot-first, pass later’ approach. This has excited the Lakers fans.

DK (Dalton Knecht), every action you’re in, you’re coming up to score. Get out a shot, come on, man.

JJ Redick to Dalton Knecht

Redick’s emphasis on Knecht developing into a more assured offensive option, particularly as a bench player who scores right away, is highlighted in this moment. Furthermore, Redick can also be spotted telling his Lakers staff about how good of a player Knecht is.

FS Video

In addition, Redick’s direct advice shows that he believes Knecht can generate his shot and give the Lakers’ second unit more firepower. He wants Knecht to see every opportunity as an opportunity to score points rather than second-guessing himself or passing to teammates. It remains to be seen how Knecht will perform throughout the 2024-25 NBA season.

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JJ Redick opened up on Dalton Knecht’s defensive side of the game

The Los Angeles Lakers drafted rookie Dalton Knecht as the 17th overall pick during the 2024 NBA Draft. It’s safe to say that their decision has paid off. This is because Knecht has delivered promising performances in fewer minutes this season.

Although his shooting/attacking side of the game is top-notch, his defensive side of the game needs improvement. The Lakers Head Coach, JJ Redick shared his insights on the rookie regarding the defensive aspect of his game.

I would say when we drafted him (Dalton Knecht), we felt like he could contribute right away. Summer League confirmed that…. You obviously then have to translate to a game, particularly on the defensive side of the ball for a rookie. And that’s where I think we’re most encouraged. Again, he’s gonna make some mistakes and that’s ok. He wants to be coached. He wants to be great.

JJ Redick told the reporters
YouTube video
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With the new CBA, developing domestic talent in today’s game is crucial. Knecht is basically one to look at under Redick. Also, he has the potential to be a rotation player in the future, and Redick wants to develop a program with the Lakers. All eyes will be on Redick’s management of the Lakers this 2024-25 NBA season.