Particle.news
Download on the App Store
130 ARTICLES
·
5h ago

Mavericks Close Preseason With 121-94 Win Over Shorthanded Lakers as Dončić Rests, Flagg Impresses

Los Angeles prioritized recovery on the back end of a back-to-back, reflecting JJ Redick’s cautious ramp-up plan with LeBron James sidelined.

Image
Luka Dončić pours in 25 points in preseason debut against Suns
Image
Los Angeles Lakers forward Luka Dončić (77) is pressured by Phoenix Suns guard Jordan Goodwin (23) in the first half on Oct. 14, 2025, at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix.

Overview

  • Dončić did not play in Las Vegas after a 25-point, 22-minute preseason debut the night before in Phoenix, part of a managed workload following EuroBasket.
  • The Lakers also sat Austin Reaves, Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart and others, and Bronny James missed the game with a minor right ankle sprain.
  • Dallas surged with a 37-8 fourth quarter; Anthony Davis led with 18 points and 9 rebounds, and rookie Cooper Flagg had 13 points in 28 minutes while getting on-ball reps.
  • Redick criticized the team’s inconsistency after the Suns loss, saying the Lakers “took a step backwards” as rotation decisions continue.
  • LeBron James remains out with sciatica for at least 2-3 more weeks, leaving the starting lineup unsettled before the Oct. 21 opener against the Warriors.