Collin Sexton is “trending in the right direction” for the Lakers’ regular-season opener next week, according to coach JJ Redick, but his absence has clearly highlighted a massive problem. These guys are giving the ball away by the bucketful in preseason, and it’s ugly.
Sexton’s Sideline Impact
While Sexton, dealing with a lower right leg ailment, did get to participate in practice on Thursday, he still hasn’t taken part in live play. You can feel his absence on the court, especially with the turnover issues that have plagued the team. The Lakers have committed turnovers by the bucketful so far, and they’ve sorely missed Sexton’s ability to handle the ball, break down defenses, and attack downhill. That kind of play takes a ton of pressure off Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, and without it, the offense looks like it’s scrambling.
Beyond Sexton: A Banged-Up Roster
Sexton isn’t the only one on the mend, either. The Lakers haven’t been fully healthy, which may be contributing to their issues. Center Walker Kessler missed the first three preseason contests with a jammed left pinky finger. Forward Ziaire Williams, who’s been dealing with a foot ailment, missed the last three games, but he fully participated in practice Thursday and says he’s confident he can play. Adou Thiero, another forward, missed Tuesday’s matchup versus the Golden State Warriors due to “maintenance” but was a limited participant in Thursday’s practice. Rookie Cameron Carr has sat out the last two games and didn’t practice Thursday. Even Luka Doncic missed Tuesday’s game before fully participating in Thursday’s practice.
The Lakers have one more preseason game on the schedule, hosting the Denver Nuggets at Crypto.com Arena on Friday. They’re sitting at two wins and two losses in preseason play, and they’ll need to sort out these health and turnover issues fast before the regular-season opener on Wednesday, Oct. 21.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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