RECAP (Preseason): Lakers Fans Get First Look at the New 2026-2027 Squad, Defeating Kings, 127-103
The New Look Lakers debuted in their preseason opener, defeating the Kings 127-103.
Last night we got to see many of the new Lakers play their first game for the purple and gold. L.A. was without Walker Kessler, Austin Reaves, Colin Sexton, and Arthur Kaluma for precautionary reasons.
Luka Doncic played his first live basketball game since the injury he sustained against OKC back in April. He scored 21 points in the first half, along with 2 steals and three 3-pointers.
Despite missing some key rotational pieces, the Lakers hit the ground running and looked very connected as a unit.
We saw a youthful, energetic, and aggressive team on both ends of the floor.
Everyone had their moment to shine. We saw the potential of what this team could be as the season progresses. A team where every rotation player can provide reliable production in different areas. One thing that stood out when watching the team play for the first time was the intent everyone brought. The roles looked defined, and the overall rotation executed the coaching staff’s vision.
With Kessler and Reaves out, Quentin Grimes, Matisse Thybulle, Kevon Looney and Ziaire Williams received starting spots. Grimes immediately impressed, especially when he used his quickness to get to the rim. He scored 16 points on 5-for-7 shooting. Ziaire Williams provided 13 points on 4-for-6 shooting. Matisee Thybulle was incredible defensively and executed his role as a 3&D guard to perfection. He shot 2-for-4 from three along with two steals.
Six different Lakers had 2 steals apiece, and the team totaled 15 steals. Kevon Looney at Center played his role perfectly as well, grabbing 9 rebounds, 4 offensive rebounds, and setting hard screens which created several open looks.
Bench Production
Off the bench, Jake LaRavia looked like the version of himself we saw at the beginning of last season. He deflected passes, blocked shots, played solid defense, shot well, and scored at the rim. He had 12 points on 5-for-6 shooting in 21 minutes.
Sandro Mamukelashvili led the team in assists, had 2 steals, and made two of his four three-point attempts. He definitely looked like the glue guy/connector piece that he’s known to be. He really fits the “pass, dribble, and shoot” type of player JJ is looking for.
And of course, the rookie Cameron Carr. An explosive athlete who carries himself with a ton of confidence. He had 19 points in 21 minutes on 7-for-13 shooting, including three 3-pointers. Jaden Hardy, who arrived via the Deandre Ayton trade, provided some quick scoring with two threes and 8 points overall in just 14 minutes.
We also saw a ton of great defensive effort from Adou Thiero, Bronny James, and Chris Manon. All three have developed in the G League, and each looked calmer and more composed with noticeable refinements to their games.
The Lakers face the Warriors tonight at Chase Center for Preseason Game 2.
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