Luka Doncic returned from a six-month absence to score 21 points in just 16 minutes, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to a 127-103 preseason victory over the Sacramento Kings on Oct. 6, 2024 (local time, Oct. 5), at the opening of their exhibition schedule.
Doncic Sparks Lakers With 13 First-Quarter Points
Playing in his first game since April 2, 2024, against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Doncic wasted no time reestablishing his rhythm. The guard erupted for 13 points in the opening quarter alone, finishing his brief evening with 21 points, three assists, two rebounds, and two steals.
“Really missed it,” Doncic said after the game. “Basketball is one of the best things in life. It’s been like five, six months, right? It’s really fun to get back to playing and competing. I’m just really happy to be back.”
Doncic missed the previous season’s playoffs due to a hamstring injury, which forced a summer focused on physical conditioning and rehabilitation rather than live team scrimmages.
Head Coach JJ Redick Praises Camp Condition
Lakers head coach JJ Redick noted that Doncic arrived at training camp in exceptional physical condition. Redick stated the guard dedicated his offseason to targeted sprint work and rigorous conditioning to ensure a smooth return to the floor.
“Frankly, it felt really good,” Doncic said of his physical state after logging nearly 16 minutes of action. His intensive summer training regimen allowed him to bypass the usual rust associated with a half-year layoff.
Newcomers Lead Team Energy in Sacramento
The visiting Lakers showcased a heavily overhauled roster featuring several fresh faces alongside Doncic in the starting lineup, including Kevon Looney, Matisse Thybulle, Quentin Grimes, and Ziaire Williams. Sacramento countered with a starting five of Domantas Sabonis, Zach LaVine, De’Andre Hunter, Precious Achiuwa, and Darius Acuff Jr.
Doncic highlighted the contributions of newcomers Thybulle and Williams for setting an infectious tone from the opening tip. “Everyone was having fun,” Doncic said. “Especially Matisse and Ziar. The way those two guys entered the game had a goodness that spread to everyone. And the guys coming off the bench were great, too. They shared the ball and had fun.”
Next Preseason Checkpoint
The Lakers continue their preseason schedule as they build toward the regular-season opener under their restructured roster, with further exhibition matchups scheduled ahead of the team’s official campaign.
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