Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves Shine in Lakers’ Preseason Victory Over Kings
The Lakers look set to depend heavily on the duo of Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves this season. Their teamwork was evident in a close 114-110 preseason victory against the Sacramento Kings at Crypto.com Arena.
Right from the opening play, their chemistry was clear. Reaves passed to Doncic cutting to the basket, who scored despite being fouled. Both shared 25 minutes on the floor; Doncic scored 23 points on six-for-16 shooting, while Reaves contributed eight points with two-for-seven shooting, plus eight assists and five rebounds.
Key Moments Highlight Their Impact
Doncic's highlight came in the second quarter, nailing a 31-foot one-legged three-pointer off a pass from Sandro Mamukelashvili, who finished with 19 points. Reaves impressed late in the same quarter with a hesitation move that froze defender Emanuel Sharp, leading to an easy layup along the baseline.
Coach JJ Redick attributed their success to natural chemistry and mutual respect. He pointed out the value of having multiple ballhandlers on the court, saying, "Having two-to-three ballhandlers on the floor at all times is an underrated part of the NBA now."
Injury Updates
- Walker Kessler and Collin Sexton missed their third straight preseason game.
- Ziaire Williams sat out his second consecutive game due to soreness, but it is not considered serious.
- Cameron Carr, Dalton Knecht, and Arthur Kaluma did not play.
Kessler, recently acquired from the Utah Jazz, has been recovering from a finger injury caused during practice. Coach Redick mentioned, "We've got to check in tomorrow. It's not concerning. He'll play in the preseason."
