Lakers Rookie Dalton Knecht Sends Stern Message to Ja Morant & the Grizzlies

The rivalry between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Memphis Grizzlies is rapidly intensifying. While the Lakers have historically found their most intense competition in teams like the Denver Nuggets and Boston Celtics, their recent encounters with the Grizzlies have sparked a new level of animosity, especially after their meeting in the first round of the 2022-23 NBA playoffs. Although Memphis was without their star player Ja Morant for much of the season, the heated exchanges and on-court drama between these two teams suggest that this rivalry is far from over.

The most recent chapter in the Lakers-Grizzlies saga came when the teams faced off in early November 2023. In the first matchup of the season, the Grizzlies came out on top with a 131-114 victory, but the game’s drama went beyond just the score. Ja Morant took the opportunity to throw some shade at the Lakers, particularly LeBron James, making comments that did not sit well with the Lakers or their fans.

Morant, who has been vocal about his confidence on the court, made headlines with his comments, suggesting that he was the “new king” in the league, despite LeBron James still being at the top of his game. Morant’s comments were seen as disrespectful not only to LeBron but to the Lakers as a whole, and it lit a fire under the team, particularly rookie guard Dalton Knecht.

Knecht, known for his competitive spirit, responded with a fiery attitude ahead of the next meeting between the two teams. When asked about the Grizzlies’ behavior, Knecht didn’t hold back, telling ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, “Go for the throat. They tried to embarrass us on their home court.” Knecht’s words reflected the Lakers’ determination to not let the disrespect slide.

The Lakers faced the Grizzlies again on November 13, 2023, and this time, the tables turned. The Lakers won a hard-fought game 128-123, and Knecht was vocal about the team’s motivation. “They were real disrespectful,” Knecht said after the game, emphasizing how the comments from Morant and the Grizzlies fueled the Lakers’ desire to prove themselves. Knecht’s performance on the court and his comments afterward made it clear that he was ready to back up his words with action.

The game was a pivotal one for the Lakers, and Knecht’s contribution was significant in the win. While LeBron James and Anthony Davis continued to lead the way, it was the intensity and determination from the younger players like Knecht that helped propel the Lakers to victory. Knecht’s energy and attitude were key in maintaining the team’s focus and fighting spirit, proving that he’s not only a rookie in name but a fierce competitor on the court.

Knecht’s comments are indicative of the culture that the Lakers have cultivated this season. With veteran leadership from LeBron and Davis, paired with the fiery attitude of the team’s younger players, the Lakers have established themselves as a squad that won’t back down from any challenge. And when a team like the Grizzlies crosses the line with disrespect, the Lakers are ready to respond with force.

The rivalry between the Lakers and the Grizzlies is one to watch, and with players like Dalton Knecht leading the charge, it’s clear that this isn’t just a battle on the court—it’s personal. As the season progresses, expect this rivalry to continue to heat up, with both teams looking to prove who truly owns the throne in the West.