The Los Angeles Lakers hosted the Sacramento Kings at the Crypto Arena on Saturday, December 28, 2024, with the anticipation of completing a season sweep over their divisional rivals. The matchup was particularly charged, as the Lakers were missing their superstar, LeBron James, who was sidelined due to illness, and the Kings had just parted ways with their head coach, Mike Brown.
James’ absence was confirmed just over an hour before the game, when the team's coach did not disclose the specifics of James' illness. The Lakers faced additional uncertainty, with Anthony Davis and Rui Hachimura also listed as questionable due to their conditions from the previous game.
Entering the game, the Lakers had already taken three victories against the Kings earlier this season, and this final contest promised to be no different, even with James missing from the lineup. Austin Reaves stepped up to lead the Lakers, showing early dominance by scoring the team's first five points. Despite challenges, the Lakers maintained strong performance, finishing the first quarter with a score of 40-31.
Anthony Davis, who appeared to be recovering from his mild ankle sprain sustained during the Christmas Day game, consistently pushed the pace offensively, supported by Hachimura's sharp shooting. The Kings managed to respond to the Lakers' pressure with their own long-range shooting, eventually reclaiming the lead at halftime, 66-65.
The second half saw constant action, and the intensity of the game escalated, especially after Domantas Sabonis of the Kings was saddled with foul trouble. His exit opened the door for the Lakers, allowing Davis and Reaves to build on their leads, culminating in the Lakers entering the final quarter up 107-90.
Though the Lakers initially extended their lead to 20 points, the Kings fought back valiantly, aided by Malik Monk and Kevin Huerter’s sharpshooting. Yet, the absence of Sabonis proved too much for the Kings, as they fell short, allowing the Lakers to secure the victory, 132-122.
Looking forward, the Lakers have some time to recuperate before facing the Cleveland Cavaliers on New Year’s Eve. The Kings, on the other hand, must regroup following their latest defeat and the sudden coaching changes. Players and coaches alike, including DeAaron Fox from the Kings, expressed confidence and determination heading forward, knowing how pivotal each game is as the playoff picture begins to solidify.