In a recent outing that has sent ripples through the NBA, Los Angeles Lakers rookie Dalton Knecht put on a historic display, and LeBron James was quick to highlight the oversight of other teams in the draft process.

Knecht, a 23-year-old rookie from the University of Tennessee, was selected by the Lakers with the 17th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, a move that many now see as a significant steal. Despite being projected as a top-ten pick, Knecht slid out of the lottery, much to the surprise of many basketball fans and analysts.

On Tuesday night, Knecht delivered a performance that justified the high expectations surrounding him. In a 124-118 win over the Utah Jazz, Knecht scored 37 points, including a rookie record-tying nine three-pointers. This explosive performance was capped off by a remarkable third quarter where he scored the Lakers' final 18 points, including five consecutive three-pointers and three free throws, to extend the Lakers' lead to 22 points.

LeBron James, who has been a vocal supporter of Knecht since preseason, did not mince words when addressing the teams that passed on the young scorer. "The other 16 teams f—ed it up," James said, emphasizing his point with a wry smile. "Did anybody watch him? They didn't just f— it up."

James, who had watched Knecht play in the Elite Eight matchup between Purdue and Tennessee in March, praised Knecht's abilities and questioned how teams could have overlooked him. "You don't 'find' a SEC Player of the Year," James noted, underscoring Knecht's credentials and the fact that he was not an unknown quantity.

Knecht's impact on the Lakers has been immediate and significant. With Rui Hachimura out due to an ankle injury, Knecht has stepped into the starting lineup and delivered back-to-back games of at least 27 points. His scoring ability has been crucial in the Lakers' recent wins, and his performance against the Jazz has cemented his status as one of the biggest steals of the 2024 draft.

The Lakers have Knecht on a four-year, $18.5 million rookie contract, which could prove to be a bargain if he continues to perform at this level. For now, LeBron James and the Lakers are reaping the benefits of a draft decision that other teams may soon regret. As James put it, the other teams "didn't find DK. The other 16 teams f—ed it up." It's a message that resonates loudly across the NBA, highlighting the potential that Knecht brings to the table and the oversight of those who passed on him.