The Los Angeles Lakers enter their first preseason matchup at a significant disadvantage. Superstar forward LeBron James is sidelined due to nerve irritation in his glute, while offensive initiator Luka Doncic is missing the first two games as he continues a ramp-up after EuroBasket. With their matchup against the Phoenix Suns tonight, expectations are being carefully managed, especially by Lakers head coach JJ Redick, who spoke to reporters before the preseason opener.

Redick was candid about the team’s approach. “ Execution’s not gonna be perfect… that’s a given. ” He said, recalling past experiences during back-to-back preseason games in Palm Springs. He emphasized a shorter rotation planned for the players, saying, “ Maybe in the 4th quarter, there’s a couple guys that would play l

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