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Rui Hachimura gives advice to Lakers rookie Dalton Knecht

Rui Hachimura gives advice to Lakers rookie Dalton Knecht

In the midst of the preseason, the Lakers' younger players have provided some of the team's finest moments to date.

Jalen Hood-Schifino shined in training camp and Quincy Olivari helped the reserves prevail against the Milwaukee Bucks and give JJ Redick his first win as a coach, albeit in the preseason.

In the win against the Bucks, Dalton Knecht once again showed a strong performance and finished the evening with 13 points, eight rebounds and four assists in his 34 minutes of play.

After the game, Rui Hachimura praised Knecht's play and offered some insight into his advice for the younger guys on the team.

“I like the way he approaches the game,” Hachimura said. “He is very aggressive. He's a great shooter. He knows his game. He's still trying to learn. It's different. I was like that when I got out of college too. Just the distance and playing with these superstars is not easy. “He's still trying to figure it out, but I want him to be more aggressive and just be himself.

“That will help, and that’s what I did. When young people have difficulties, I always tell them: 'Be yourself.' That will always be the key, especially in this league and for the team to win. I think he did a great job.

As a rookie, Knecht showed brilliant performances in his role with the Lakers. Even though he had expected difficulties on defense, he was outstanding on offense. He leads the team with 26.7 minutes played per game per rank Ranked in the top four with 12 points per game.

Even though the number of participants is small and it's just pre-season preparation, there have been signs of Knecht's potential in every game so far. So far, the Lakers' rookie has been positive every time he's worn the purple and gold.

Hearing key rotation players like Hachimura praise him is encouraging and a good sign for what his rookie season could look like.

Since Austin Reaves, no Lakers rookie has made a significant impact in their first year. Knecht has a chance to break into the rotation and earn playing time this season, especially as he continues to impress in preseason.

As Hachimura said, Knecht just needs to stay aggressive and be himself. And so far Good things happen when he does that.

You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88.

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