JJ Redick Hypes Dalton Knecht for Being 'Catalyst' of Lakers' Comeback vs. Grizzlies

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James' third consecutive triple-double was the headline of Wednesday's win over the Memphis Grizzlies, but rookie guard Dalton Knecht received well-deserved credit from his head coach for his part in the victory.

Lakers head coach JJ Redick told reporters after Wednesday's 128-123 win that Knecht "was the catalyst for our comeback" thanks to the energy he brought off the bench. The 2024 No. 17 pick scored a career-high 19 points on 7-of-8 shooting and 5-of-5 from three-point range to help Los Angeles rally from a 96-91 deficit entering the fourth quarter.

Even James, who dominated with 35 points, 12 rebounds and 14 assists, said after the game that Knecht was the key reason for the victory, especially with star big man Anthony Davis dealing with foul trouble throughout the game.

"We leaned on Dalton Knecht; that's what we did," James said in his post-game interview. "AD got in foul trouble, and our first-round pick hit a hot streak. He looked like he was back at Tennessee, so we leaned on him. I just tried to sprinkle in a couple plays here and there."

Knecht is averaging 7.3 points while shooting 37.2 percent from beyond the arc, but Wednesday's performance showcased what the Lakers knew he could do when they drafted him. The 23-year-old will likely see more opportunities to contribute going forward.

The Lakers (7-4) will be seeking their fourth straight win when they meet the San Antonio Spurs (6-6) on Friday.