The Lakers narrowly lost to the Kings! All four starters exploded, Smart led the offense and defense, and Rivers made 3 of 15, which was impossible to watch.

In the preseason game between the Lakers and Kings on October 18, 2025, the game was always inextricable. However, the Lakers were able to maintain the score advantage through the second and third quarters and maintain the lead. However, the Kings held on in the final quarter and completed the reversal at the last minute. The Lakers lost to the Kings 116-117.

The top four starters all performed very well in this game. Especially Doncic, who had been resting before. In this game, Doncic showed his role as the core of the team. He made 6 of 11 three-pointers in the game and scored 31+9 assists. This performance is perfect enough. Of course, this is how Doncic should perform, after all, he is the core of the team.

Hachimura also performed very well, and he was able to maintain a stable output during this period. He scored 18 points on 6-of-10 shooting, which is great as a turret. Vincent finally scored 14 points on 5-of-6 shots in a game, but he was unable to gain a substantial position despite being in full form, which is regrettable. Ayton also stepped up, scoring 12+9 on 5-of-8, and he was able to protect rebounds when facing one against two. Now as long as Ayton's efficiency is stable and he is more active in protecting the frame, it will be of great help to the inside.

But Rivers collapsed. With the defensive end being targeted, the offensive end's shooting percentage is too bad after physical exhaustion. 3 of 15 in the game, this efficiency is obviously not enough. Even if it can be organized simply, it's a pity that such solid data is still not enough, which is a big trouble for the Lakers.

There was also a big surprise on the bench. No one was very optimistic about Smart, but he was the best performer on the Lakers bench in this game. With 14 points on 5-of-11 shooting, there were 4 steals on the defensive end. He can even appear to be diving for the ball. There is no problem with his enthusiasm on the court. The possibility of him becoming the best sixth man cannot be ruled out.

As for other players, they did not perform well. Players such as Van Der Biao, Laravia, Kleber, and Smith are all in very sluggish condition.