Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler finally shared the floor Friday in the Lakers’ preseason finale loss to Denver, giving Los Angeles its first extended look at the new core after weeks of waiting.
Los Angeles used five preseason games to sort through a roster with nine newcomers, and the article says the group already has distinct roles but still needs time to settle in.
JJ Redick said the Lakers must trim the roster from 16 to 15 players before Opening Night, and he tied the squeeze to a changed team fit after Los Angeles added more wings. He said Dalton Knecht is in a tough spot right now.
Trail Blazers owner Tom Dundon met with Portland officials after a preseason game as the sides continued talks on Moda Center renovations and a new 20-year lease. The negotiations had been tense earlier this summer, but the tone now appears calmer.
Los Angeles opened its preseason finale against Denver with Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, Walker Kessler, Matisse Thybulle and Ziaire Williams, and Williams had just returned after missing the previous three exhibitions.
Golden State finished its preseason Saturday with a 128-118 win over Portland, as Stephen Curry scored 20 points and Draymond Green added seven points, eight rebounds and 11 assists. The Warriors’ bench also outscored the Trail Blazers 61-47 in the finale.
Jake Fischer reported that the Lakers have explored a framework with Milwaukee that would send Dalton Knecht and draft capital for Jericho Sims as Los Angeles works to cut its roster from 16 contracts to 15 and add frontcourt help.
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POR
LAL
GuardDamian Lillard
GuardJa Morant
ForwardDeni Avdija
ForwardToumani Camara
CenterDonovan Clingan
GuardLuka Doncic
ForwardMatisse Thybulle
ForwardZiaire Williams
GuardAustin Reaves
CenterWalker Kessler
