Knecht's three-level scoring at Tennessee was on full display in 2023-24 and propelled him up draft boards. The Lakers used the No. 17 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft on Knecht, who's projected to compete for rotation minutes as a rookie. Los Angeles is essentially running it back with LeBron James and Anthony Davis at the helm. However, depth was a major concern last season, opening up an opportunity for Knecht. Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura and D'Angelo Russell should round out the starting five on Opening Night, and Gabe Vincent and Jarred Vanderbilt should have reserve roles after missing most of last season. That leaves Knecht to compete with Cam Reddish, Max Christie and fellow rookie Bronny James for second-unit wing minutes.