The Lakers' Draft Decision: A Tale of What Could Have Been
When the Los Angeles Lakers snagged Dalton Knecht at No. 17 in the 2024 NBA Draft, it seemed like a solid choice. Knecht was a projected top-10 pick who unexpectedly became available, offering the Lakers a promising wing scorer they desperately sought.
Fast forward to 2026, and Cleveland Cavaliers' swingman Jaylon Tyson is showing the Lakers what they might have missed out on. Despite thriving as a star for the California Golden Bears, Tyson was overlooked by the Lakers, who allowed the Cavaliers to pick him up at No. 20.
In just his second season, Tyson has become a crucial contributor to a 37-23 Cavaliers team, outperforming the 34-23 Lakers. The landscape in Los Angeles has shifted significantly since Knecht's selection, most notably with Anthony Davis being replaced by Luka Doncic. This change has made Knecht an imperfect fit, reducing his minutes and highlighting a mismatch in playing style.
Tyson, on the other hand, could have been the perfect addition, complementing both Davis and Doncic with his versatile skill set.
Tyson's Impact in Cleveland
Currently, Tyson is averaging 13.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, 1.9 offensive boards, 2.2 assists, 0.9 steals, and 2.0 three-pointers per game, shooting an impressive .503/.456/.772. While Lakers wing Luke Kennard leads the league in three-point percentage, Tyson ranks first among players making at least 2.0 threes per game.
The Lakers, ranking No. 19 in three-point percentage and No. 23 in threes made per game, could have significantly improved in these areas with Tyson on their roster. His success with a team boasting four All-Stars suggests he could have thrived on the Lakers' star-studded lineup as well.
The Regret of Passing on Tyson
What makes the situation even tougher for the Lakers is Tyson's two-way value, something their current volume three-point shooters lack. Tyson is making a case for an All-Defense level season, ranking in the 91st percentile in perimeter isolation defense, 92nd in ball screen navigation, and 98th in off-ball chaser defense, according to Basketball Index.
For a Lakers team sitting at No. 23 in points allowed per isolation possession and No. 24 in defensive rating, Tyson's defensive prowess would have been invaluable. Meanwhile, Knecht's limited playing time due to defensive inconsistencies only adds to the regret.
Every team has its draft misses, but the Lakers' decision to pass on a local talent like Tyson, who is now flourishing and embodying exactly what they need, is a tough reality to face.