The Los Angeles Lakers may have lost 117–116 to the Sacramento Kings on Friday night, but Luka Dončić’s performance offered a glimpse of what’s to come in the franchise’s new era.

The Slovenian superstar delivered 31 points, nine assists, and five rebounds in just 32 minutes at Crypto.com Arena, leading a Lakers offense that looked polished in stretches but inconsistent defensively.​

Dončić shot 8-of-16 from the field, drilling six three-pointers and showcasing his trademark step-backs, body control, and court vision. Despite his efficiency, the Kings—playing without several key starters, including Domantas Sabonis and Keegan Murray—clawed back behind veteran guard Dennis Schröder’s 25-point effort. 

After rookie Dalton Knecht tied the game with a three-pointer in the final moments, Sacramento sealed it with a late free throw from Isaac Jones.​​

Finding Rhythm Without LeBron

Coach JJ Redick treated the matchup as the “dress rehearsal” for opening night, using the game to test rotations while LeBron James continues to nurse a right-side sciatica issue expected to keep him sidelined into November. 

In his absence, Gabe Vincent impressed with 14 points on 4-of-5 from downtown, while Rui Hachimura added 18 points and Deandre Ayton contributed 12 and nine boards.​

Though Los Angeles struggled to sustain its defensive assignments late in the fourth quarter, Dončić’s chemistry with teammates stood out. He thrived in pick-and-roll actions with Ayton and created open looks for shooters like Vincent, signaling the makings of a fluid offensive structure.​​

Takeaways From a Promising Start

The one-point defeat means little in the preseason standings but says plenty about the Lakers’ trajectory. Dončić’s control and efficiency confirm he’s ready to lead the offense when the regular season tips off next week. His blend of shot creation, leadership, and pace brought life back to a Lakers team still acclimating to its revamped roster.

As LeBron James works his way back and the rotation takes shape, Dončić’s impact has made one thing clear: Los Angeles may not be flawless yet, but their new franchise cornerstone looks every bit the part of an MVP contender.