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4h ago

Luka Dončić, Marcus Smart Set for Lakers Preseason Debuts Tuesday in Phoenix

Ramped minutes signal cautious planning with LeBron James out at least 2–3 weeks.

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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.

Overview

  • Coach JJ Redick said Dončić will play in two of the final three preseason games with a minutes ramp‑up, debuting Tuesday against the Suns and being highly unlikely to play Wednesday’s back‑to‑back in Las Vegas.
  • Smart, who missed the first three exhibitions with Achilles tendinopathy and a brief illness, will also debut Tuesday as Los Angeles begins to integrate key backcourt pieces.
  • Austin Reaves will be available versus Phoenix after leading Sunday’s 126–116 win over the Warriors and confirming a brief leg scare was not serious.
  • Deandre Ayton posted 14 points, eight rebounds and five assists against Golden State and emphasized his role as the team’s defensive anchor at center.
  • Rookie Chris Mañon sustained a Grade 2 ankle sprain and is very unlikely to play in preseason, as the Lakers evaluate lineups before hosting the Warriors on Oct. 21 following games vs. the Mavericks (Wed.) and Kings (Fri.).