The Utah Jazz are gearing up for another round of draft selections, with three opportunities on the horizon, just like last year. They’ve been focused on addressing positional needs, a strategy they’re likely to continue in the upcoming draft.
While this year’s draft class might not boast top-tier talent, there’s plenty of depth in rotational players, with Dalton Knecht emerging as a standout prospect.
Knecht’s draft projections vary, with mock drafts placing him anywhere from #4 to #11, averaging out at #9.
Let’s take a closer look at Knecht’s profile. Standing at 6’6″ and weighing 213 lbs, the University of Tennessee senior is primarily viewed as a combo guard, although his athleticism and strength allow him to excel as a wing as well. Defensively, he’s most effective against opposing guards, particularly those lacking elite speed.
During his tenure at Tennessee, Knecht put up impressive numbers, averaging 21.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, among other stats. However, there are some concerns about the validity of these numbers, which we’ll address later.
Knecht’s journey to the NBA draft has been marked by ups and downs. Despite his high school success, he initially received no Division I offers and wasn’t ranked among ESPN’s top recruits. He honed his skills at various collegiate levels before finding his stride at Tennessee.
Throughout his college career, Knecht has showcased his scoring prowess and ability to attack the basket. However, questions remain about his defensive capabilities, which will require further evaluation.
One thing’s for sure: Knecht’s confident and efficient shooting is a standout aspect of his game, as demonstrated by his highlight reel filled with impressive jump shots.
