The Los Angeles Lakers host the Sacramento Kings in their final preseason game tonight. Lakers coach JJ Redick stated his team will treat this contest as a dress rehearsal for the regular season. “We’ll get those guys some normal rotation run through early parts of the fourth,” Redick explained, indicating his key players will see increased minutes. On that note, let’s discuss if the new face of the Lakers, Luka Doncic, will be playing tonight-

Is Luka Doncic Playing Tonight?

Luka Doncic is set to play and will have an increase in his minutes. He is not listed on the Lakers’ injury report for this game. Coach Redick has confirmed that Doncic’s playing time will be managed like a typical regular-season rotation. So far, Doncic has participated in only one preseason game, as he missed the first three due to his extended stint with Slovenia at EuroBasket 2025.

The 26-year-old guard made his preseason debut against the Phoenix Suns on October 14, and the Lakers have been cautious with his workload throughout training camp and the exhibition schedule. Redick previously indicated that Doncic would play in two of the team’s final three preseason games, and tonight marks his second appearance. With LeBron James sidelined and the regular season rapidly approaching, Doncic will be counted on to carry a heavier load for Los Angeles.​

The Lakers anticipate starting Doncic at point guard alongside Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Jake LaRavia, and Deandre Ayton in their expected lineup for tonight’s game. This configuration is designed to maximize spacing and allow Doncic to orchestrate the offense from the perimeter while Ayton provides interior presence.

Lakers Injury Report Ahead of Today’s Matchup Against the Kings

The Lakers will be without several players for this preseason finale. LeBron James remains out with a sciatica injury and isn’t expected to make his season debut until around mid-November. Rookie guard Bronny James is also ruled out due to an ankle issue. Adou Thiero continues to recover from a knee injury and will be re-evaluated in several weeks.

The Sacramento Kings are also dealing with significant absences. Domantas Sabonis has been ruled out with a mild right hamstring strain. Keegan Murray continues to recover from thumb surgery, and Malik Monk remains out due to illness. DeMar DeRozan is listed as probable to play despite a groin issue. Newly signed guard Russell Westbrook’s availability for his Kings debut has not been officially confirmed.

Where to Watch the Lakers vs the Kings Preseason Matchup

Date: Friday, October 17, 2025

Time: 7:30 PM PT / 10:30 PM ET

Where to Watch: NBA TV, Spectrum SportsNet

The game will be played at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Local viewers can watch on Spectrum SportsNet, while national audiences can tune in to NBA TV. The game will not be broadcast on local television in Sacramento, though Kings fans can stream it online via Kings.com.

Predictions for Tonight’s Lakers vs Kings

The Lakers should come away with a victory in their preseason finale against the Sacramento Kings. Los Angeles enters the contest as firm favorites, with oddsmakers listing them at minus 265 on the moneyline while the Kings sit as plus 210 underdogs. The spread is set at Lakers minus 6.5, with an over-under total of 227 points.

The Lakers are at an advantage, as they have their primary playmaker, Luka Doncic, available. The Kings face greater roster challenges with Sabonis, Murray, and Monk all sidelined, limiting their offensive firepower.

Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves have shown great chemistry in their recent preseason games. Doncic is leading Los Angeles in scoring, averaging 25 points per game, while Reaves has stepped up as a dependable third option, averaging 22 points per game with an impressive shooting percentage of 56.8%. Deandre Ayton is expected to dominate the boards against Sacramento’s weakened frontcourt. With home court advantage and the desire to build positive momentum, Los Angeles is in a strong position.