Dalton Knecht Explains Choosing Knicks Contract amid Rumored Interest from Wolves, More

Following his release from the Los Angeles Lakers last week, Dalton Knecht decided to join the defending champions.

The former first-round pick in the 2024 NBA draft signed a two-way deal with the New York Knicks over the weekend. Discussing the deal, Knecht said he felt the Knicks gave him the "best opportunity."

"It just felt like the best opportunity. I talked to the coaching staff, known them for awhile, so it was good," he said. "Thought this would be a great fit, and I'm excited to be here."

The Knicks weren't the only team interested in the former SEC Player of the Year, as the Minnesota Timberwolves, Sacramento Kings and Toronto Raptors reportedly eyed him as well.

Ultimately, New York had an "aggressive" pursuit, according to SNY's Ian Begley, and that was enough to land Knecht.

Knecht had a promising rookie year with the Lakers, averaging 9.1 points per game in 78 contests, but things quickly changed last year. He only played 10.2 minutes per game and was nearly out of the rotation by the end of the season.

It will be hard for Knecht to find minutes on a talented Knicks team, but New York clearly sees potential in him.