Getty
Golden State Warriors power forward Draymond Green.
Most NBA players already know not to talk to Draymond Green during games. Some have learned by example, and most have just seen the viral clips of him taking opponents down, either verbally or physically.
On October 12th, the Golden State Warriors lost to the Los Angeles Lakers, 126-116, in a preseason matchup. Green posted only two points and added four assists and two steals. The Lakers were led by Austin Reaves’ 21 points before he was sidelined with a knee injury.
So far this preseason, second-year wing Dalton Knecht has struggled with the Lakers. Drafted 17th overall in 2024, Knecht was expected to be the best shooter in the draft, although he is hitting only 26.3% of his 3s so far.
Against the Warriors, he got hot, finishing with 16 points, although he made a cardinal mistake against Green.
GettySAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 05: Dalton Knecht #4 of the Los Angeles Lakers drives around Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors in the first half of a preseason NBA game at Chase Center on October 05, 2025 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
Draymond Green Slams Dalton Knecht
Along with his 16 points, Knecht added three rebounds and two assists. He made two of his five shots from deep and got to the free-throw line eight times.
Absorbing some contact and finding offensive success should inspire some confidence in Knecht. To open the second half, he was clearly feeling himself and decided to talk some trash to Green.
As Deandre Ayton took free throws, Green was quick to respond to Knecht.
“Talk to somebody else, don’t talk to me,” Green told the second-year wing. “You kept talking s—. You get traded and sent back.”
Last season, the Lakers agreed to send Knecht and a first-round pick to the Charlotte Hornets for Mark Williams. The trade was revoked after Williams failed a physical, returning him to Charlotte. Knecht would spend the rest of the season in Los Angeles, knowing he is expendable.
Green, meanwhile, has never been traded or seriously included in trade rumors.
Dalton Knecht Stayed Out of His Head
Knecht is a fairly inexperienced player coming off a rough rookie season and disappointing summer league campaign. He is likely the first player the Lakers will trade, and after Los Angeles added Marcus Smart and Jake LaRavia this offseason, his playing time will likely dwindle.
After Green reminded him of his early-career struggles, Knecht didn’t miss a beat. He went two-of-four from the floor, making his lone 3-pointer after Ayton’s free throws and Green’s insult.
Part of playing for the Lakers is brushing off quips from opponents, fans, and the ever-critical media. Knecht is able to handle the attention that comes with playing in Hollywood, and no matter where he ends up this season, he should be able to continue to improve.
Green, meanwhile, failed to score and turned the ball over after his interaction with Knecht.
Jonah Kubicek Jonah Kubicek has been covering the NBA since 2021 and has served as a writer, editor, and social media manager. When he’s not catching a game, he can be found cooking, reading, or meticulously planning his garden. More about Jonah Kubicek
More Heavy on Lakers
Loading more stories
