Lakers vs Kings Preview: What to Watch
A Busy Week Begins for The Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers face the Sacramento Kings tonight to open a demanding week. This game marks the first of five games in seven days for Los Angeles, including two back-to-back sets.
The Lakers enter the matchup on a two-game losing streak. They dropped recent games to the Milwaukee Bucks and San Antonio Spurs. With a heavy schedule ahead, Los Angeles needs a strong start tonight.
Rui Hachimura Returns to the Lineup
While Austin Reaves remains sidelined, the Lakers will welcome back Rui Hachimura. Hachimura returns after missing time since late December, when Los Angeles last played Sacramento.
This will mark his first appearance of the new year. His return comes at an ideal time, given the challenging schedule ahead.
“He’ll likely come off the bench” — JJ Redick details Rui Hachimura’s role upon return from a right calf issue. Hachimura will be on a minutes restriction to begin with, which could keep Jake LaRavia as a starter pic.twitter.com/cUJOND9095
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) January 11, 2026
Jake LaRavia’s Growing Role
Head coach JJ Redick told reporters that Hachimura will likely come off the bench tonight. Jake LaRavia is expected to remain in the starting lineup.
LaRavia has delivered a strong defensive effort in recent games. Defense remains a key focus for the Lakers. He has also shown improvement from three-point range.
In the loss to Milwaukee, LaRavia shot 60 percent from deep. He knocked down a clutch three late in the game. His recent play has solidified his role in the rotation.
Kings Continue to Search for Answers
Sacramento has struggled to find an identity this season. The Kings remain near the bottom of the Western Conference standings.
Domantas Sabonis has remained out since mid-November with a knee injury. His absence has impacted the team’s offensive flow.
The Kings will also be without Dennis Schröder, who is serving a three-game suspension following an incident in the last matchup against the Lakers. With key players sidelined and struggles continuing, changes could be on the horizon for Sacramento.
A Key Opportunity for the Lakers
This week presents a chance for the Lakers to show resilience. Only one of their next five opponents sits above .500. Three of the five games will be at home.
Still, the workload will test depth and focus. Tonight’s matchup sets the tone. The Lakers must avoid overlooking a struggling Kings team and secure a much-needed win.
