Kings Rally to Overcome Lakers Despite Luka Doncic’s Strong Performance

Bassyonni

ago 3 hours

The Los Angeles Lakers faced off against the Sacramento Kings in a preseason game on Friday at Crypto.com Arena. Despite a stellar performance from Luka Doncic, the Lakers fell short, losing 117-116. Doncic led the team with 31 points, nine assists, and five rebounds, supported by a strong roster including Austin Reaves. However, the Kings emerged victorious, showcasing their depth even without key players.

Kings Rally to Overcome Lakers

The Kings played without several stars, including Keegan Murray and Domantas Sabonis. Despite these absences, they shot an impressive 54.7% from the field. Former Laker Dennis Schroder stood out, scoring 25 points on 10-of-17 shooting.

Late-Game Drama

In a thrilling finish, Lakers guard Dalton Knecht hit a game-tying three-pointer with just 9.4 seconds remaining. However, Kings forward Isaac Jones made a decisive free throw with only 0.8 seconds left, sealing the win for Sacramento.

Player Highlights

Luka Doncic: 31 points, 9 assists, 5 rebounds
Austin Reaves: 8 points, 4 rebounds, 8 assists
Gabe Vincent: 14 points, 5-of-6 shooting, 4 three-pointers
Marcus Smart: 14 points, 3 rebounds off the bench
Dennis Schroder: 25 points for the Kings

Coach JJ Redick used this matchup as a final tune-up before the regular season, tweaking the lineup in anticipation of superstar LeBron James’ ongoing absence due to sciatica. James is expected to remain sidelined until at least November, missing the season opener for the first time in his career.

Injury Updates

In addition to James, the Lakers were also without Bronny James, who is recovering from an ankle injury, and rookie Adou Thiero, who has a knee issue. Center Jaxson Hayes did not return after halftime due to a wrist contusion.

Looking Ahead

The Lakers will need to adjust their strategy as they prepare for the regular season without key players. The team aims to build on their performance, particularly focusing on finding chemistry between Doncic and Reaves, who played together for the first time in this preseason match.

As the Lakers gear up for the season, questions remain about their lineup configuration and how they will cope with injuries to crucial players. With intensity ramping up, the upcoming games will be critical for establishing team dynamics and performance consistency.