Preseason Matchup Overview
In a tightly contested preseason matchup at Crypto.com Arena, the Los Angeles Lakers fell short against the Sacramento Kings, losing 117-116. The game saw standout performances, particularly from Lakers guard Luka Doncic, who scored 31 points, contributed nine assists, and grabbed five rebounds. This was his first game alongside teammate Austin Reaves, who added eight points with four rebounds and eight assists to his performance.
Key Performances and Game Highlights
Despite a strong showing from Doncic, the Lakers couldn’t seal the victory. Crucially, the Kings, who were missing several key players including Keegan Murray and Domantas Sabonis, capitalized on their shooting prowess, hitting 54.7% of their shots from the field. Former Laker Dennis Schroder led the Kings with 25 points, shooting 10-of-17.
The game was exciting down to the final seconds, with Lakers guard Dalton Knecht hitting a pivotal three-pointer to tie the game at 116 with just 9.4 seconds remaining. However, Kings forward Isaac Jones secured victory for Sacramento with a successful free throw after being fouled by Nick Smith Jr..
Coaching Decisions and Player Adjustments
Head coach JJ Redick had tightened the team’s rotation for this last preseason matchup, designating it a crucial “dress rehearsal” before their regular-season opener. With superstar LeBron James sidelined due to a right-side sciatica issue—a condition expected to keep him out at least until November—the Lakers are adjusting their lineup. Redick opted to start Gabe Vincent alongside Doncic and Reaves, as well as Rui Hachimura and Deandre Ayton. Vincent, who in earlier games averaged 17 points and boasted a 50% shooting rate from beyond the arc, showed his value again by scoring 14 points on five-of-six shooting, including four three-pointers.
Veteran guard Marcus Smart, who suffered a slow start due to Achilles tendinopathy, came off the bench to contribute 14 points and three rebounds after initially hesitating on the offensive end. Despite the initial struggles, he showcased his defensive skills by intercepting a pass and demonstrating a dynamic play style with an acrobatic layup.
Challenges Ahead for the Lakers
Lakers fans were reminded of the team’s depth challenges, with not only James unavailable but also Bronny James (ankle) and rookie Adou Thiero (knee) absent from the lineup. Center Jaxson Hayes showcased his athleticism with impressive dunks in the first half but did not return in the second half due to a right wrist contusion.
As the Lakers gear up for the regular season, the absence of LeBron will be a significant hurdle, making it the first time in his distinguished 23-year career that he will miss the team’s season opener. Redick and his squad are left to refine their strategy in preparation for the challenges ahead in the coming weeks.
This story was previously published in the Los Angeles Times.