The Los Angeles Lakers played their second preseason game without Luka Doncic, LeBron James and Austin Reaves, falling 111-103 to the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday night. Despite the defeat, the margin was narrower than the 22-point loss to Phoenix in the exhibition opener.
Gabe Vincent paced Los Angeles with 16 points and five assists. “We came with more intention. We were more focused,” Vincent said after the game. “Obviously it’s different with those three not playing. They’re a huge part of our team and everything that we do. But next man up.”
Integrating Deandre Ayton
The Lakers were outscored by 25 points during Deandre Ayton’s minutes against Golden State. According to The Athletic, coaches expect an adjustment period as the center acclimates to an offense where he will rely heavily on playmakers for scoring opportunities. Unlike Anthony Davis, Ayton rarely creates for others or stretches the floor, but team officials are not alarmed about his long-term impact.
LaRavia Comfortable in New Role
Free-agent addition Jake LaRavia chipped in 10 points and three assists in the loss. The forward, who joined Los Angeles on a two-year deal after leaving Memphis, told reporters he already feels “pretty comfortable with the role that I have” in head coach JJ Redick’s system.
Marcus Smart Returns to Contact Work
Guard Marcus Smart, limited earlier in camp by Achilles tendinopathy, took part in live segments of Tuesday’s practice, Redick said. “He looked great. He was moving great,” forward Jarred Vanderbilt noted, emphasizing Smart’s vocal leadership on defense. Smart signed with the Lakers after a buyout from Washington.
The Lakers continue preseason play later this week as they await the returns of Doncic, James and Reaves.
Source: Hoops Rumors
