Dalton Knecht Stats Tonight: How did Lakers rookie fare after being moved to the bench against Denver Nuggets?

Dalton Knecht and the LA Lakers suffered a blowout 127-102 loss against the Nikola Jokic-led Denver Nuggets in a high-stakes regular season game on Saturday. After starting the last four games in Rui Hachimura’s absence due to a left ankle sprain, Knecht returned to his bench role with Hachimura back in the starting lineup.

Despite the change, the rookie made the most of his 13 minutes in the first half, delivering an immediate impact both offensively and on the boards. The former Tennessee standout finished the half with five points, three rebounds, and one assist, shooting 2 of 4 from the field, including 1 of 2 from three-point range.

The second half belonged entirely to the Denver Nuggets, who unleashed an incredible 50-17 run after halftime, leaving fans at the arena in shock. The Lakers were completely outplayed and Dalton Knecht struggled to make an impact during the onslaught. In the final two quarters, the rookie managed just 1 of 3 shooting from the field and missed both his attempts from beyond the arc.

Knecht finished the game with nine points, five rebounds and one assist, shooting 3 of 7 overall, including 1 of 4 from 3-point range.

Fans want Dalton Knecht to be a part of starting lineup

Following the Lakers’ disappointing loss to the Denver Nuggets, fans rallied for Dalton Knecht to be included in the starting lineup. Many voiced their opinion online, suggesting that Rui Hachimura should come off the bench to make room for Knecht in the starting five.

"We have to go back to the Dalton Knecht over Rui Hachimura lineup. Rui is worse than Dalton on defense and much slower laterally. Dalton is also a negative defender, so it’s still a lose-lose, but it’s pick your poison with this roster on defense," commented a fan.

"JJ wasted knecht today by moving him to bench. Rui gave nothing and Dalton was not used properly. Hope JJ makes knecht starter again in next match," a fan wrote.

"Right or Wrong….Should Dalton Knecht return to the starting lineup for the Lakers after this blowout ???" asked another fan.

Meanwhile, the Lakers will next cross swords against the Phoenix Suns in an NBA Cup game on Tuesday.