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Lakers Set Luka Dončić’s Preseason Debut for Tuesday vs. Suns

Los Angeles shifts into a cautious ramp-up to set rotations without LeBron James.

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 05: Deandre Ayton #5 of the Los Angeles Lakers shoots over Quinten Post #21 of the Golden State Warriors in the first half of a NBA preseason basketball game at Chase Center on October 05, 2025 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - APRIL 27: Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers passes the ball against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the third quarter of Game Four of the First Round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Target Center on April 27, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Timberwolves defeated the Lakers 116-113 to take a 3-1 series lead.
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Overview

  • Coach JJ Redick said Dončić is slated to play two of the Lakers’ final three preseason games, beginning Tuesday in Phoenix.
  • Redick expects a controlled minutes ramp-up for Dončić, with usage determined in consultation with trainer Javy Barrio.
  • Marcus Smart is cleared to play against the Suns, and Austin Reaves is available after a minor lower‑leg knock.
  • Reaves led a 126-116 win over the Warriors with 21 points before confirming he was fine following a third‑quarter collision.
  • Redick said Dalton Knecht earned a start by being the team’s best offensive player in practice, while emphasizing his defensive growth will dictate his ceiling.