The Los Angeles Lakers will take some positive momentum into the regular season following a 111-104 win over their in-city rivals on Friday. Playing against a conglomerate of bench players, the Lakers were able to pick up a tough win on the proverbial road.
The Lakers were led by a combination of players. Brook Lopez continued his offensive onslaught, finishing with 16 points on 7-of-12 shooting. Lopez made two out of five threes, showcasing his stretch-five ability that made him a trade target for the Lakers.
More importantly for the Lakers, Brandon Ingram finally found his rhythm, putting together his best game of the preseason. The young forward finished with 15 points on 6-of-10 shooting while adding five assists and four rebounds. Ingram was more aggressive and more controlled in this contest, hitting two threes and drawing two and-one opportunities in a well-balanced effort.
Julius Randle had a consistent game with 15 points, seven rebounds, and two assists. Rookie Kyle Kuzma had his worst shooting night of the night, scoring only 8 points on 1-of-6 shooting but still looked good, especially through his sudden passing ability.
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope anchored the Lakers’ defense with three steals, oftentimes turning that defense into offense. KCP also added nine points, six rebounds, and five assists, filling up the boxscore in his best game of the preseason.
The Lakers did not come out of the game unscathed as Julius Randle suffered back spasms in the fourth quarter and did not return. His availability for the season opener on Thursday is unclear.
