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Dalton Knecht · Somewhere between underdog and favorite, depending on one’s perspective, the Los Angeles Lakers — in theory, at least — could find comfort in knowing they had the experience edge against their up-and-coming NBA Cup opponent on November 29, 2024. In great irony, though, one could argue that their biggest boost arrived through a player that had never experienced the high-stakes pressures before. Both ahead of his time, and in this case, ahead of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s fastbreak defense, Dalton Knecht illustrates on-floor IQ, racing to position himself for a two-on-two showcase against Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace. Unflinchingly confident, even after getting the short end of the around-the-rim stick earlier, the Lakers’ No. 17 pick prepares for liftoff, denoting over the NBA’s No. 1-ranked defense with a two-handed poster flush. Knecht’s efforts proved valiant, even in a loss that ended Los Angeles’ In-Season Tournament repeat aspirations. In leading the purple-and-gold in the scoring column, Knecht accumulated 20 points, six rebounds, four assists, and six 3-pointers, affording himself a second-straight 20-point outburst. · State of Mint