Los Angeles – In an electrifying performance that had fans on their feet, Lakers guard Dalton Knecht made headlines by tying the NBA rookie record for most 3-pointers in a game.

He drained 9 shots beyond the arc, contributing a sizzling 37 points to the Lakers' 124-118 victory over the Utah Jazz on Tuesday night.

LeBron James Comments on Draft Miscalculations

After the game, LeBron James, who added to the win with a solid 26 points and 12 assists, couldn’t help but emphasize the miscalculations of other teams during the draft. "They didn’t 'find' DK," James asserted. "The other 16 teams f---ed it up. Did anybody watch him? You don’t just 'find' a SEC player of the year."

Knecht's Spectacular Performance

Knecht’s performance was nothing short of a spectacle. He set the court ablaze with 21 points in just the last 3:29 of the third quarter, effectively doubling the Lakers' lead from 11 to 22 points as they entered the final quarter. His streak of four consecutive 3s, facilitated primarily by D'Angelo Russell, electrified the Crypto.com Arena.

Critical Free Throws and Historical Third Quarter

In a moment that showcased his skill and poise, Knecht managed to draw a foul beyond the arc from Utah’s Cody Williams, sinking all three free throws. He capped off his historical third quarter by knocking down another 3-pointer, finishing the period an astounding 6-for-6 from deep.

Impressive Shooting Line

Knecht concluded the game with an impressive shooting line: 12-for-16 from the field, including 9-for-12 from 3-point range, while also contributing five rebounds and a steal. Lakers coach JJ Redick expressed confidence in Knecht's ability to rise to the occasion, stating, "He's fearless... It’s a real weapon for our group beyond just the score. It’s a weapon that energizes us."

Knecht Mimics Jordan's Iconic Shrug

In a nod to basketball history, Knecht mimicked Michael Jordan's iconic shrug from the 1992 NBA Finals after his breakout performance. "Rui [Hachimura] was talking to me about having a 3-point celebration," he said. "I just didn’t know what to do, so I went with the shrug."

Lakers Franchise History

This incredible feat makes Knecht the fourth Lakers player in franchise history to hit nine or more 3-pointers in a game, joining legends Russell, James, and Kobe Bryant.

Extending the Winning Streak

With this victory, the Lakers extended their winning streak to six games, boasting a perfect 2-0 record in NBA Cup group play. "We urge him to shoot the basketball," Anthony Davis, who also had a strong night with 26 points and 14 rebounds, remarked on Knecht's shooting talent. "He can do more than just shoot. But he's really good at shooting the basketball. We get mad at him when he doesn’t shoot."

Knecht's Recent Performance

Knecht has now been on a tear since entering the starting lineup three games ago to cover for Hachimura due to an ankle injury, averaging an impressive 26 points, shooting 63.6% from the field, and a staggering 61.5% from beyond the arc. As the Lakers continue their strong performance this season, fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close eye on this rookie prodigy.