LeBron James and Anthony Davis Sit Out Lakers’ Preseason Opener Against Timberwolves
PALM DESERT, Calif. — The Los Angeles Lakers began their preseason without their two star players, LeBron James and Anthony Davis, who were held out of Friday night’s game for rest. The Lakers fell to the Minnesota Timberwolves, 124-107, in their preseason opener. However, both LeBron and Davis are expected to return in the Lakers’ next preseason matchup on Sunday against the Phoenix Suns at Acrisure Arena.
In their absence, Jaxson Hayes and Max Christie stepped up as starters for the game against Minnesota. The decision to rest James and Davis comes after a busy offseason, where both players traveled with Team USA and helped secure a gold medal at the Paris Olympics.
Bronny James, the Lakers rookie and son of LeBron, made his first appearance in preseason action. He logged 16 minutes, scoring 2 points on 1-of-6 shooting. Despite the nerves, Bronny was eager to hit the court and soak in the experience.
“There are definitely some nerves, but that’s part of the game,” Bronny said after the team’s shootaround. “I’m just excited to learn from the guys playing ahead of me, and if I get the opportunity to showcase my game, I’ll do my best.”
Bronny also touched on how his relationship with his father, LeBron James, has evolved now that they’re teammates. Having grown up with his dad courtside during his high school, AAU, and college basketball games, the dynamic is a little different now.
“It’s similar to when he was watching me play growing up, but now we’re teammates,” Bronny said. “There’s going to be more in-depth discussions about the game. I’m ready for it.”
The Lakers will look to bounce back in their next preseason game, and fans are eager to see how the legendary duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis perform as they prepare for the regular season.