Magic Johnson Reacts To The Lakers' First Round NBA Draft Selection

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06/27/2024 04:31 PM

TODAY -- Pictured: Magic Johnson on Tuesday, April 4, 2023 -- (Photo by: Nathan Congleton/NBC via Getty Images)

The Los Angeles Lakers got their fans pumped during last night's first round of the 2024 NBA Draft, taking Tennessee superstar Dalton Knecht with the 17th overall pick. Among the many fans who got excited was none other than Lakers legend Magic Johnson.

Taking to X on Thursday, Magic praised the Lakers for an "outstanding pick" by taking Knecht. He described Knecht as a "deadly 3-point shooter/scorer" and comes from a great Tennessee hoops program. Magic believes that Knecht could start next season or play off the bench.

"Laker Nation, outstanding pick last night by our Lakers selecting Dalton Knecht - I love it! Dalton is just what the Lakers need, a deadly 3-point shooter/scorer who is physically tough and has swag. He also played for a winning program and really good college coach at Tennessee, Rick Barnes! Dalton is a guy that has a chance to start or play a lot off the bench," Magic wrote.

Fans were impressed with how much Magic actually studied Knecht with some admitting that he gave better analysis with one post than ESPN did during their live coverage.

"It's sad when Magic Johnsons analysis is better than ESPNs draft coverage," one user joked.

"Magic knows what's up," declared another.

"Better coverage then ESPN. Thank you MagicGPT," joked a third.

Whether Knecht has the ability to be an opening night starter remains to be seen. But after averaging 21.7 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game in the SEC and earning tons of honors with the Vols, it certainly seems possible.