Lakers to Be Without LeBron James During Preseason Game vs. Kings

As we head into the second game of the Sacramento Kings’ preseason run, the team is set to face off in an early test against their Pacific rivals: the Los Angeles Lakers. After Sacramento managed to take home wins in three of the four regular-season matchups last year, LA is looking to get a leg up with a new season headed underway.

Of course, it’s only preseason, but both teams getting a first look at both rosters could be a great tell for each franchise on what to expect throughout this coming season. Both teams are set to play again in the regular season on October 29th at Golden One Center, so this preliminary matchup can be a solid preparation and scouting tool in a few weeks.

However, the Lakers are looking to be shorthanded during tonight’s game, with F LeBron James resting on Wednesday vs. the Kings, according to Khobi Price of The Orange County Register.

Darvin Ham says LeBron James won't be available for tomorrow's preseason game against the Sacramento Kings.
— Khobi Price (@khobi_price) October 10, 2023

Considering the stakes are simply a preseason game with no true implications, it’s not a shock to see LeBron decide to sit this one out. The 21-year NBA vet will be turning 39 years old come December, so keeping his miles down to preserve his body before the playoffs is a focal point of this Lakers season.

As for the Kings, there have not yet been any injuries to note, indicating a fully healthy lineup for Wednesday. There is always the possibility of stars like G De’Aaron Fox and C Domantas Sabonis getting their time on the floor limited with the current circumstances, but signs point to everybody being ready and available.

After starting this preseason 0-1 with a 112-99 loss to the Toronto Raptors, Sacramento will have a great chance to get back on track with a LeBron-less Lakers team.

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