Dalton Knecht’s standout performance: rookie ties 3-point record in Lakers' 124-118 win over Jazz

Dalton Knecht tied the NBA rookie record with nine 3-pointers, scoring 37 points in the Lakers' win over the Jazz.

Dalton Knecht delivered a record-setting performance in the Los Angeles Lakers' 124-118 victory over the Utah Jazz on Tuesday night, tying the NBA’s single-game rookie record with nine 3-pointers. Knecht scored a career-high 37 points, with 21 of those coming in the third quarter, electrifying the home crowd at Crypto.com Arena. “It’s a great feeling, but credit to my teammates for finding me in those moments,” Knecht said, per ESPN.

LeBron James contributed 26 points and 12 assists, while Anthony Davis added 26 points and 14 rebounds as the Lakers improved their home record to 7-0. Austin Reaves chipped in with 17 points, helping the defending NBA Cup champions secure their second win in group play. “Dalton gives us the perimeter shooting we’ve been missing, and it’s been a game-changer,” James commented postgame.

For the Jazz, Lauri Markkanen led with 25 points, while Keyonte George scored 10 of his 18 points in the fourth quarter. Collin Sexton added nine of his 19 points in the final stretch, but Utah’s late 43-point fourth quarter wasn’t enough to overcome the deficit.

Knecht’s nine 3-pointers tied the rookie record held by Rodrigue Beaubois, Yogi Ferrell, and George himself. His offensive burst included four consecutive 3-pointers in the third quarter, giving the Lakers a commanding 25-point lead early in the fourth.

Despite Utah’s rally, Knecht’s sharpshooting proved decisive. “Dalton has been outstanding since joining the starting lineup, and tonight was special,” Lakers head coach Darvin Ham said.