rookie

“Need that,” rookie Dalton Knecht said with a smile.

But the Lakers hung around, thanks to James, Rui Hachimura and rookie Dalton Knecht, who scored a career-high 19 points while making all five of his three-point shots.

The rookie from Notre Dame is facing the most difficult matchups of his NFL career since injuries elevated him into the starting lineup.

The Chargers allowed 107 yards receiving to Saints receiver Chris Olave, who was playing with rookie quarterbacks Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener, and two touchdowns to Tennessee’s Calvin Ridley last week.

Rookie kicker Joshua Karty kicked field goals from 34, 55, 53, 22 and 31 yards.