The Los Angeles Lakers face the Sacramento Kings in the 2025-26 NBA season in what promises to be another entertaining matchup, especially with the Lakers looking to build on their early momentum. Still, one big question looms ahead of tipoff: will Luka Doncic play tonight?
Thanks to a 49-point performance from Luka Doncic against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday, the Lakers dominated the second half and rolled to a convincing 128-110 win over their Western Conference rivals. It was another statement outing for the new face of Los Angeles basketball.
Through two games, the 26-year-old superstar has averaged an astonishing 46.0 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 8.5 assists, setting a new franchise record for the most points scored by a Laker in the first two games of a season.
Doncic opened the campaign with 43 points against the Golden State Warriors before erupting for 49 versus Minnesotaânarrowly missing triple-doubles in both performances.
Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers controls the ball.
Is Luka Doncic playing for the Lakers vs Kings?
According to Shams Charania, Lakers star Luka Doncic has been ruled out for at least one week due to a left finger sprain and a lower left leg contusion. The 26-year-old sustained both injuries during Fridayâs win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, despite finishing the game just one point shy of a 50-piece.
With Doncic sidelined, Los Angeles will need to adjust quickly and lean on Austin Reaves to handle a larger offensive role on Sunday. This matchup will also serve as an early test of how the Lakersâ system operates without their new franchise centerpiece.
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Austin Reaves ready for the spotlight
Should Doncic sit out, Reaves will shoulder a larger offensive load and have a prime opportunity to shine. The guard has started the NBA season averaging 25.5 points, 10.0 assists, and 6.0 rebounds per game, shooting 58.1% from the field and 30% from beyond the arc.
