Doncic Debuts with Lakers vs Suns: NBA Preseason and JJ Redick’s Plan

Doncic Ready for Preseason Debut with the Lakers

Star player Luka Doncic is scheduled to make his preseason debut with the Los Angeles Lakers, according to coach JJ Redick. The anticipated match will take place on Tuesday against the Phoenix Suns. Doncic did not participate in the first three preseason games for the Lakers, with the team looking to manage the workload of the 26-year-old player, who recently competed with the Slovenian national team in the EuroBasket. After the game against the Suns, the Lakers will complete their preseason schedule with a game in Las Vegas against the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday and a home game against the Sacramento Kings on Friday. Redick mentioned that Doncic will also play in the game against the Mavs or the Kings. He is expected to play against the Kings, as the game against the Mavs is the second night of a back-to-back. The coach will work with Doncic’s physical trainer, Javy Barrio, to determine the amount of time Doncic will play, but the Lakers will be cautious in Phoenix.

There will probably be a gradual increase in minutes for Luka between the first and second game. We are still talking with Javy and Luka about what makes sense.

JJ Redick

When asked how he planned to use Doncic, Redick humorously replied: “Give him the ball.” Marcus Smart, who was absent for the first three preseason games due to Achilles tendinopathy, will also make his debut with the Lakers in Phoenix, according to Redick. The coach added that Austin Reaves will also play against the Suns. With the start of the regular season against the Golden State Warriors a little over a week away, Redick said he still has to define his starting lineup. LeBron James will be out for at least two or three more weeks due to sciatica on the right side before being reevaluated. Redick commented that the goal is to align the five best players as much as possible, seeking a balance in each lineup. Substitution metrics are being considered to determine who will defend, who will create plays, and ensure sufficient shooting ability in each lineup, including the starting one.