NBA Draft 2024 Review: Los Angeles Lakers

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The Los Angeles Lakers (47-35) were able to qualify for the NBA Playoffs, but lost 4-1 in the Western Conference First Round to the Denver Nuggets. The most frustrating part about this series is that the Lakers lost two of the games in the series by two points in each game after having big leads in the second half.

After firing head coach Darvin Ham, Los Angeles really tried to hire UConn men's basketball coach Danny Hurley, but he decided to stay in the college ranks after winning two straight championships. The Lakers were then able to hire former NBA player JJ Redick as the new head coach.

The Lakers were then able to improve their roster with two new picks in this year's NBA Draft.

Round 1, Pick 17: Dalton Knecht - G - Tennessee. 6'6", 197 lbs (21.7 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 39.7% 3-PT FG%).

Knecht was the SEC Player of the Year because he is a dynamic scorer. He can make the long-range shots along with creating his own shot off of the dribble. He should see playing time right away off of the bench and should be able to add more scoring off of the bench for the Lakers.

Round 2, Pick 25: Bronny James - G - USC. 6'4", 210 lbs (4.8 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 2.1 apg).

Bronny James showed the world his toughness after playing last season after suffering a cardiac arrest a year ago. To even play last season was a miracle. LeBron James and Bronny will now be the first father-son duo in NBA history to be on the same team. He may not see much time during the season because he will have to adjust from playing shooting guard in college to point guard in the pros.

Overview: Knecht dropping to 17 is the biggest steal in this NBA Draft. A few scouts on other teams will be fired in the near future.

Grade: A.