Knecht was considered a near-lock to go in the lottery, but perceived concerns over his defense and age led to his slide down the board. With the Tennessee product still available, the Lakers made the easy choice to pick him and they are already reaping the benefits as the rookie has come almost exactly as advertised.

Bronny James made his NBA debut in the Los Angeles Lakers' 124-107 preseason-opening loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday, but it was a pair of other rookies who stole the show. Minnesota's Rob Dillingham poured in 21 points,