E Da Old Tymer

In a familiar storyline, the Lakers were outplayed by the Kings in Sacramento in a 124-112 loss on the road. Luka Doncic was a standout for the Lakers, showcasing his offensive prowess with 42 points in just 37 minutes. Veteran forward LeBron James contributed 22 points, shooting just under 50% from the field, while center DeAndre Ayton made his presence known with a double-double, tallying 13 points and 13 rebounds.

Leading the charge for the Kings was veteran guard DeMar DeRozan, who scored 32 points on an impressive 14-for-19 shooting, and was nearly perfect from the free-throw line, hitting four of five attempts. Russell Westbrook turned back the clock with a vintage performance, adding 22 points on 50% shooting, including from beyond the arc. The Kings’ starting lineup was firing on all cylinders, with Zach LaVine contributing 19 points and Maxime Raynaud adding 11. Precious Achiuwa was the only starter not to reach double figures, finishing with 9 points.

The Lakers’ bench was a rare bright spot, outscoring the Kings’ reserves 32-31. Notably, Malik Monk was a one-man show for the Kings’ bench, scoring 26 of their points, nearly outpacing the combined efforts of Dalton Knecht, Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, Nick Smith, and Bronny James. Without Knecht’s contribution, Monk’s performance would have matched the Lakers’ bench output.

However, the bench wasn’t the only area where the Kings found success. DeRozan exploited the Lakers’ defensive lapses, consistently driving to the basket for short jumpers or dishing out to open shooters from long range. The Kings shot an impressive 59% from the field and an astounding 65% from three-point territory. While the Lakers didn’t shoot poorly overall, hitting 48% of their shots, their long-range struggles were evident, sinking just 22% of their attempts. Despite winning the battles in rebounds (39-32), steals (9-6), and turnovers (10-12), the Lakers’ loss was particularly painful. Until the Lakers regain full health and cohesion, losses to seemingly lesser opponents will continue.

The Lakers have no time to regroup as they prepare to host the Atlanta Hawks tonight.

Game Leaders:

Scoring

– Luka Doncic (Lakers) – 42 pts.

– DeMar DeRozan (Kings) – 32 pts.

Rebounds

– DeAndre Ayton (Lakers) – 13

– Precious Achiuwa/Dylan Cardwell (Kings) – 7 each

Assists

– Luka Doncic (Lakers) – 8

– Malik Monk (Kings) – 8