Three Things to Watch for in Lakers Preseason Opener vs. Kings

The Los Angeles Lakers begin their preseason Monday against the Sacramento Kings, providing the first opportunity to evaluate a roster that has spent training camp building chemistry and competing for roles.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. PT at Golden 1 Center. With another game Tuesday against Golden State, player availability and workloads will shape how much fans see of the Lakers’ established players.

The result should carry less weight than the possessions that reveal how this group fits together. My priorities are the offense around Luka Dončić, the execution of the perimeter defense and the competition for minutes.

If Dončić and Walker Kessler play together, their pick-and-roll partnership should be the first thing to watch.

The important detail is how Sacramento responds. If its center steps toward Dončić, Kessler needs to provide a clear passing target. If help comes from the perimeter, the Lakers need proper spacing and quick decisions to turn that rotation into an open shot.

I would pay particular attention to possessions after the initial pass. An advantage can disappear when a teammate holds the ball, hesitates on an open attempt or allows the defense to recover.

Austin Reaves’ involvement also matters. The Lakers should use his ability to attack a shifting defense rather than requiring Dončić to create every opportunity from a standstill.

Even in limited minutes, those sequences can show whether the offense is producing easier opportunities.

JJ Redick expressed confidence before camp that the Lakers have enough perimeter defense, shooting and ballhandling. Monday offers an initial opportunity to examine how those pieces function against another team.

Pressure alone will not establish a dependable defense.

The Lakers need their guards and wings to navigate screens, communicate switches and recover without leaving teammates responsible for multiple assignments.

I would watch what happens when Sacramento beats the first defender. Does the next player rotate early? Does someone cover the vacated shooter? Does the possession end with a rebound?

A deflection is encouraging, but a complete defensive possession says more. The goal should be making Sacramento work without allowing aggression to create unnecessary openings.

Redick said starting spots were available entering camp, making the preseason an opportunity for players to distinguish themselves.

My focus would extend beyond whoever scores the most.

A wing who defends, moves the ball and spaces correctly could help the starting group more than someone who produces points while disrupting its rhythm.

The reserves face a similar test. Can they maintain organization when the primary creators sit? Can they defend without fouling and generate quality shots before the possession breaks down?

One exhibition will not settle the rotation. Still, Monday can provide evidence of which players understand their responsibilities and which combinations deserve another look.

The most useful outcome is a clearer picture of how the Lakers intend to play, and who can help them execute it.