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1h ago

Luka Dončić, Marcus Smart Set for Lakers Preseason Debuts Against Suns

Los Angeles plans controlled minutes to build chemistry before a back-to-back.

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Oct 13, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Miami Heat center/forward Bam Adebayo (13) falls to the ground after a collision against the Atlanta Hawks during the third quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
Anfernee Simons scored 21 points Sunday against the Cavaliers.

Overview

  • Lakers coach JJ Redick said Dončić will play Tuesday in Phoenix and appear in two of the team’s final three preseason games, with a planned minutes ramp-up.
  • Marcus Smart confirmed a 20–25 minute limit for his debut as he returns from Achilles tendinopathy.
  • LeBron James remains out at least 2–3 weeks with sciatica before reevaluation, leaving lineup decisions in flux for Opening Night.
  • The Lakers ruled out Gabe Vincent, Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt and Jaxson Hayes for Tuesday, with rookie Chris Mañon likely to miss preseason due to a Grade 2 ankle sprain.
  • Austin Reaves is available after a brief leg scare, and Deandre Ayton has emerged as the primary rim protector following a 14-point, eight-rebound outing in Sunday’s win over the Warriors.