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Both Los Angeles Lakers selections from the 2024 NBA Draft joined the rotation for a Thursday night Summer League win over the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Bronny James recorded 13 points, while Dalton Knecht led the team with 20, as both rookies put up clutch performances in the 93-89 victory.
Here’s a look at some of the hottest takes of the night surrounding the newest additions to the Lakers’ roster.
James shows up in the clutch
James hit a step-back three late in the fourth quarter to help the Lakers close a late deficit to the Cavaliers.
Fans thought James overall looked more comfortable Thursday night than in his earlier Summer League performances.
James entered Thursday night on a hot streak following his best Summer League performance yet, during which he registered 12 points in Wednesday win over the Atlanta Hawks.
He followed that up with another double-digit points total Thursday night on 5-of-10 shooting from the field.
James also went 1-for-3 from behind the arc, and 2-for-2 from the foul line, while adding five rebounds, three assists, two blocks and three turnovers.
Knecht looks rotation-ready
Knecht started out Thursday’s contest with a highlight-reel dunk.
Knecht closed out the win with two clutch free throws as he led the Lakers in points on 7-of-16 shooting, including 2-of-6 from deep, while adding seven rebounds, one assist, one steal and two turnovers.
His shooting left some fans convinced the Tennessee product is ready for a rotation spot this fall.
The Lakers’ Summer League schedule wraps up Saturday with an afternoon contest against No. 11 pick Matas Buzelis and the Chicago Bulls.
Cavs fans miss out on DJ Burns
Burns earned no playing time Thursday night, causing an uproar from fans hoping to see the former NC State standout compete against the Lakers.
Burns, who is on a tryout deal with the Cavaliers, has received limited minutes while putting up efficient production in the team’s last two Summer League outings.
Fans were dissatisfied with his lack of use in the Cavaliers’ Thursday loss.
It remains to be seen if Burns will get playing time when the Cavaliers return to Summer League action Saturday against the Indiana Pacers.