Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers opened their preseason schedule with encouraging first-half play before falling 113-104 to the Phoenix Suns. The starters built a double-digit halftime cushion behind Luka Doncic’s 25 points, seven rebounds and four assists in 22 minutes. Doncic, appearing for the first time since representing Slovenia this summer, shot 7-for-15 but committed five turnovers.
Austin Reaves matched Doncic with 25 points on efficient shooting, continuing to shoulder more offensive responsibility while LeBron James manages sciatica. Phoenix center Deandre Ayton added 10 points and 13 rebounds, showing his usual presence on the glass. The Suns seized control once both teams turned to their benches, sending Los Angeles to an 0-1 preseason record.
Spurs
Veteran forward Harrison Barnes is expected to remain in San Antonio’s starting lineup, according to Jeff McDonald of the San Antonio Express-News. Barnes, who has not come off the bench since 2016, enters his 14th NBA season with 304 consecutive appearances. The 31-year-old is in the final year of a $19 million contract and said his priority is to be available for every game, a trait the Spurs value alongside their developing core.
Hawks
The Atlanta Hawks have waived guard M.J. Walker one day after signing him, per Keith Smith of Spotrac. Walker has spent most of the past four seasons in the G League with brief stints in the Knicks’ and Hornets’ systems and a short NBA appearance for the Suns in 2022. He is expected to return to the College Park Skyhawks, Atlanta’s affiliate, where he would be eligible for an $85,300 Exhibit 10 bonus if he remains for 60 days.
Source: Hoops Wire
