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Suns Bench Unit Beats Lakers as Dončić Scores 25 in Preseason Debut

Los Angeles turns to a Dončić minutes ramp with LeBron James sidelined by sciatica for at least two to three weeks.

Overview

  • Phoenix closed the preseason 113-104 over Los Angeles, rallying behind Jared Butler’s 35 points and nine assists, Jordan Goodwin’s 24, and rookie Khaman Maluach’s 17 points and eight rebounds.
  • Luka Dončić logged 25 points, seven rebounds and four assists in roughly 22 minutes in his first preseason action as JJ Redick signaled a gradual increase in his workload.
  • Redick said the Lakers’ opening lineup remains unsettled as James is expected to miss at least two to three weeks with sciatica.
  • The Suns rested a large group of regulars after returning from China, and Jalen Green will miss the season opener due to a hamstring issue that will be re-evaluated in 10 days.
  • Deandre Ayton delivered 10 points, 13 rebounds and three blocks for the Lakers, while Marcus Smart had a quiet debut with one assist in about 20 minutes.