By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Luka Doncic looks entirely at ease running the show for the Los Angeles Lakers. During Thursday’s NBA Preseason 2026 victory against the Sacramento Kings, the Slovenian superstar commanded the floor at crypto.com Arena.
The 27-year-old guard logged a game-high 23 points in just 25 minutes, setting the game’s pace from the opening tip. He attacked the rim early, hit his shots, and directed the offense with total confidence. His stat line of three rebounds, three assists, and a steal highlights how naturally he has stepped into the primary leadership role.
Other European players also made their presence felt. Georgian backup big Sandro Mamukelashvili provided a major spark for the hosts, tallying 19 points, four assists, and three rebounds, keeping the frontline strong. Also, Austin Reaves returned to action after sitting out the first two exhibition games, but Walker Kessler was among other teammates remaining sidelined.
Meanwhile, Sacramento played without Lithuanian star Domantas Sabonis. This gave Maxime Raynaud a chance to start. The French center took full advantage of the minutes, posting a 13-point, 10-rebound double-double. Rookie Alex Karaban, who is of Ukrainian and Belarusian descent, added seven points and three rebounds in the frontcourt, while Israeli Emanuel Sharp finished with 11 points.
With Doncic looking healthy and motivated, the Lakers conclude their exhibition schedule by taking on the Golden State Warriors in Las Vegas on Wednesday and welcoming the Denver Nuggets in Los Angeles next Friday. Hosting the Warriors will open the 2026–27 Regular Season on October 21, when the Kings face the Los Angeles Clippers in Intuit Dome to start their 82-game campaign.
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