Dalton Knecht Sidelined as Lakers Fall to Rockets in Game 5, Series Tightens

Key facts

• Houston defeated Los Angeles 99-93 in Game 5 of the NBA first-round playoffs at Crypto.com Arena.
• Dalton Knecht did not play for the Lakers due to a coach's decision.
• LeBron James led the Lakers with 25 points, 7 assists, 3 rebounds, and 2 steals in 39 minutes.
• Austin Reaves scored 22 points in 34 minutes for Los Angeles.
• The Lakers lead the best-of-seven series 3-2; Game 6 is Friday at 9:30 p.m. EDT in Houston.
• Knecht averaged 21.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game in his lone season at Tennessee.
• Knecht made his playoff debut in Game 4, scoring 8 points on 2-of-3 three-point shooting in 7 minutes.

A Rookie on the Sidelines

Dalton Knecht did not play in Game 5 of the NBA playoffs first round on Wednesday, as the No. 5 seed Houston Rockets defeated the No. 4 seed Los Angeles Lakers 99-93 at Crypto.com Arena. The rookie guard, selected 17th overall by the Lakers in the 2024 NBA draft, was held out due to a coach's decision, according to the team. The loss narrows the Lakers' series lead to 3-2, with Game 6 scheduled for Friday at Toyota Center in Houston. Knecht's absence from the rotation comes after he logged his first postseason minutes just days earlier, raising questions about his standing within the team.

A Promising Debut Followed by a Benching

In Game 4 on Sunday, Knecht made his playoff debut during the fourth quarter of a blowout loss to the Rockets. He scored 8 points on 2-of-3 shooting from beyond the arc, grabbed 3 rebounds, and converted both free-throw attempts in just over seven minutes of action. The Lakers lost that game 115-96, evening the series at 2-2 before they reclaimed the lead at home. Despite that efficient showing, head coach JJ Redick did not call on Knecht in Game 5, even as the Lakers struggled offensively. LeBron James led Los Angeles with 25 points, while Austin Reaves added 22. The team shot 44.9% from the field but committed 14 turnovers, contributing to the defeat.

A Season of Uncertainty in Los Angeles

Knecht's rookie season has been marked by limited and inconsistent playing time. The 23-year-old's role diminished significantly after the Lakers attempted to trade him to the Charlotte Hornets in February 2025 for center Mark Williams. That deal was nullified at the last moment due to a failed physical by Williams, but Knecht's minutes have remained sparse ever since. Despite the lack of opportunity, Knecht has produced when given minutes. In a regular-season game on April 12, he scored 17 points in 12 minutes, making 6 of 9 shots and 5 of 6 from three-point range. Over his last four appearances dating to April 7, he has converted 9 of 12 three-point attempts, a 75% rate that underscores his shooting ability.

College Stardom and the Leap to the NBA

Knecht arrived at the Lakers after a standout season at the University of Tennessee, where he transferred from Northern Colorado. Playing under head coach Rick Barnes in 2023-24, he averaged 21.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, leading the Volunteers to a Southeastern Conference regular-season championship and an appearance in the NCAA Tournament Elite Eight — only the second such run in school history. His scoring prowess, particularly from beyond the arc, made him a coveted prospect. The Lakers selected him with the 17th pick, envisioning him as a floor-spacing wing who could contribute immediately. Instead, his rookie campaign has become a test of patience, with the team prioritizing veteran experience over developing its young talent.

What Lies Ahead for Knecht and the Lakers

The Lakers now face a critical Game 6 on the road, where a win would close out the series and advance them to the second round. A loss would force a decisive Game 7 back in Los Angeles. Knecht's role for the remainder of the series remains unclear; Redick has shown little inclination to use him in competitive minutes, even as the team's bench scoring has been inconsistent. Looking beyond the playoffs, Knecht's future with the franchise is uncertain. The failed trade and subsequent benching suggest the Lakers may not view him as part of their long-term plans. Other teams, however, have taken note of his shooting efficiency in limited action. An offseason move could be in the best interests of both player and organization, allowing Knecht to find a situation where his talents are more fully utilized.

The bottom line

• Dalton Knecht did not play in Game 5 of the Lakers-Rockets series, a coach's decision that followed his efficient playoff debut in Game 4.
• The Lakers lead the series 3-2 but face a pivotal Game 6 in Houston on Friday.
• Knecht's role has been minimal since a failed trade to Charlotte in February 2025, despite strong shooting performances when given minutes.
• In his lone season at Tennessee, Knecht averaged 21.7 points and led the Vols to an SEC title and Elite Eight appearance.
• Knecht has made 75% of his three-point attempts over his last four appearances, highlighting his shooting skill.
• An offseason trade could provide Knecht with a fresh start, as the Lakers appear unwilling to integrate him into their rotation.