Lakers vs. Kings Preseason Preview: Home sweet home

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 05: Quentin Grimes #5 of the Los Angeles Lakers drives against Daeqwon Plowden #29 of the Sacramento Kings in the second half of a preseason game at Golden 1 Center on October 05, 2026 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Lakers’ preseason stint continues on Thursday when they take on the visiting Sacramento Kings. This will serve as a rematch after the purple and gold absolutely demolished them in their preseason opener.

Who: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Sacramento Kings

When: 7:30 p.m. PT, Oct 8

Where: Crypto.com Arena

Watch: Spectrum Sportsnet, ESPN2

Just like that, we’re two games into the Lakers’ preseason. So far, it’s been exactly what we all expected: a few somethings and a whole lot of nothings.

In their previous loss to the Golden State Warriors, we learned absolutely nothing about the team since they basically rested everyone. It’s fair to assume this trend will continue as the preseason goes on.

But that doesn’t mean we won’t see Luka Dončić or most of the Lakers’ key players in a game or two. At this point, it’s anyone’s guess who will suit up. What isn’t in question, though, is that Los Angeles has more than enough to beat Sacramento regardless of who takes the floor.

With all due respect to the Kings, that’s how bad they are.

So, in Thursday’s preseason home game, it would be nice to see the Lakers come away with some positive takeaways again. If Dončić, Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler remain inactive, perhaps the role players can continue giving us a glimpse of what they have in store for this season. So far, it’s been fascinating to watch the new faces in Quentin Grimes and Sandro Mamukelashvili, who combined for 27 points last game.

It’d also be nice if the Lakers could spare JJ Redick another first-half headache like the one he had last game. Save that anger for the regular season and playoffs, coach!

JJ Redick said the way the Lakers started the game against the Warriors was "insane" and that their first half was "unacceptable".

JJ: Redick: "They responded. When you draw up a first play, and then give them a second play that is a play we've scripted for ten days, or whatever… https://t.co/CilCYAkQIypic.twitter.com/KdaPp7a6zj

— Khobi Price (@khobi_price) October 7, 2026

In all seriousness, Thursday’s game is another opportunity for the Lakers to build chemistry, get valuable reps and keep the good vibes flowing regardless of who’s on the floor. It’s only preseason, but these games are still important in helping LA hit the ground running once the regular season begins and hopefully, that’s exactly what happens.

Remember, we’re just 13 days away from the season opener. Before we know it, the Lakers’ season will officially be underway. But for now, let’s enjoy the appetizer that is preseason and see if the Lakers can make Thursday’s matchup against the Kings a fun one.

• Austin Reaves, Walker Kessler, Collin Sexton and Arthur Kaluma have yet to play in any preseason game. Let’s see if that changes on Thursday.
• The Lakers will also be celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride Night during this game.
• We have an exciting new feature in our app this season. It’s easier than ever to chat in our game threads. Each game, this post will become a live chat and will be easy to find at the top of the Lakers community page, so be sure to download the app and give it a try this preseason!

You can follow Nicole on Twitter at @nicoleganglani.