Overview

• Coach JJ Redick said Luka Dončić will miss the Lakers’ first two exhibitions and then get controlled minutes later in the preseason after a planned ramp-up next week.
• Redick cited Dončić’s heavy summer workload with Slovenia and said the star is in a strong physical and mental place despite the pullback.
• LeBron James sat out with nerve irritation in his glute as the team follows individualized return-to-play steps appropriate for his 23rd season.
• Marcus Smart, Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber and rookie Adou Thiero also missed the opener, reflecting a conservative approach to October minutes.
• An unusual schedule with two games this weekend followed by a week off allows the Lakers to manage workloads while emphasizing communication, defensive shape and conditioning.